Friday 26 October 2012

Rwanda : Gov’t Issues Marburg Virus Alert


Gov’t issues Marburg Virus alert
A microscopic picture of Marburg hemorrhagic fever
Following reported outbreak of the deadly Marburg hemorrhagic fever in neighboring Uganda, the Ministry of Health has issued an alert to the public to remain vigilant as government steps up measures of preventing in-flow of the deadly virus into the country.
Marburg hemorrhagic fever is a highly contagious disease transmitted from person to person and characterized by fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, sore throat, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pains and bleeding from all orifices.
Over the weekend, Uganda’s Ministry of Health confirmed an outbreak of Marburg hemorrhagic fever in Kitumba Sub-county, Kabale district in South-Western Uganda. Media reports indicate that so far five people have succumbed to the deadly virus.
Kabale district borders Rwanda and specifically the districts of Gicumbi, Musanze, Nyagatare, and Burera that share a boarder with Uganda border are at a high risk.
Though no case has been reported in Rwanda, the government has put in place measures aimed at protecting Rwandans from this deadly disease but is also cautioning Rwandans to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases immediately.
The Ministry in collaboration with its partners and through the emergency preparedness team is taking actions for preparedness and response to prevent potential health risks that might be caused by the deadly disease.
It has issued alert warnings to all health centres on how to detect and handle cases once they arise. The Ministry has already conducted training on prevention and management of viral hemorrhagic fevers to all health care providers in District Hospitals and Health Centers.
All the necessary kit and medical supplies needed have been dispatched to all health facilities.
The public is urged to immediately seek medical attention at the nearest health facility in case of suspicion of Marburg hemorrhagic fever.
Any person who visited Uganda and had contact with someone presenting signs and symptoms of Marburg hemorrhagic fever should immediately inform the nearest health facil

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