The deadly Marburg virus has killed several people in Rwanda, prompting the WHO to mobilize medical aid to contain the outbreak. Learn more about the efforts to combat this deadly virus.

After more than 20 confirmed cases of Marburg virus disease and several reported deaths, Rwanda health authorities are stepping up efforts to contain the outbreak. 4,444 cases 4,444 cases have been confirmed in several districts of the country. While some are in isolation and undergoing treatment, dozens of people who have come into contact with reported cases have been identified. They are being monitored as authorities try to determine the source of infection.

The World Health Organization is doing all it can to help the country and will be sending medical supplies from Kenya to Kigali in the coming days.

READ ALSO: Germany Proposes Migrant Deportation Plan to Rwanda

“WHO is working closely with national authorities to provide the necessary support for further efforts leveraging already strong national health emergency response systems,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

The organization is also working to strengthen cross-border measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

The Marburg virus is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. It causes hemorrhagic fever and has a high mortality rate of up to 88%. It is transmitted to humans by fruit bats and spreads between humans by direct contact with bodily fluids of infected people.