Strategies for Managing Marburg Virus Disease Outbreaks: Lessons from the Rwanda Outbreak

Abstract

Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a highly lethal viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the filovirus family closely related to Ebola. Characterized by sudden onset of fever, hemorrhage, and multi-organ failure, MVD outbreaks pose significant public health challenges due to high mortality rates and limited medical countermeasures. The 2024 outbreak in Rwanda marked a critical point, with 66 confirmed cases and 15 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for effective management strategies. This narrative review, reviews key lessons from Rwanda's response, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection through strengthened surveillance systems and rapid diagnostics, implementation of strict infection control practices, and robust community engagement to foster trust and cooperation. Rwanda's integrated approach, including supportive clinical care, innovative use of therapeutics, and swift deployment of investigational vaccines, illustrates effective outbreak containment. The study underscores the necessity of resilient health infrastructure, ongoing research, and Cross-border collaborations in mitigating future threats. Insights from Rwanda's recent experience provide valuable guidance for global preparedness and response strategies to contain and manage future Marburg outbreaks effectively.