Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: U.S. Risk Remains Low

Rwanda experienced its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in 2024, prompting a swift response from national health authorities and international organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While the outbreak resulted in 15 deaths, the CDC has assessed the risk to the general U.S. Population as low.

What is Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg virus disease is a rare, severe viral hemorrhagic fever that is clinically similar to Ebola. It is spread by certain types of bats and can also transmit from person-to-person through direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids. Healthcare workers are at a particularly increased risk of infection during outbreaks. Symptoms appear suddenly and can include fever, rash, and severe bleeding. Learn more about Marburg virus disease from the CDC.

The Outbreak in Rwanda

The outbreak in Rwanda was first confirmed in September 2024, with 36 laboratory-confirmed cases and 11 deaths reported as of October 2, 2024. A significant proportion of the cases, at least 19, were among healthcare workers. The outbreak was declared over on December 20, 2024, following 42 days without any new confirmed cases.

Transmission was limited to three clusters: one family-associated and two hospital-associated. Rwandan health authorities responded quickly, and the CDC deployed subject matter experts to assist with epidemiology, contact tracing, laboratory testing, and infection prevention and control in healthcare settings.

U.S. Risk Assessment

As of December 20, 2024, the CDC assessed the risk to the general U.S. Population as low, with moderate confidence. There have been no confirmed cases of Marburg virus disease in the United States related to this outbreak. The CDC continues to monitor the situation and will update its risk assessment if new information warrants changes.

The CDC’s longstanding presence in Rwanda, dating back to 2002, and collaboration with the government to strengthen health systems and prevent communicable diseases have been instrumental in the response.

Key Takeaways

• Rwanda experienced its first Marburg virus outbreak in 2024.
• The outbreak was declared over in December 2024 after 42 days without new cases.
• The CDC assesses the risk to the general U.S. Population as low.
• Early supportive care, including fluid management and correction of coagulopathy, has been linked to improved survival rates in Rwandan patients.

Resources

• World Health Organization – Marburg virus disease outbreak – Rwanda 2024
• CDC – About Marburg Disease