NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has enhanced its preparedness for a potential outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) following confirmed cases in neighboring Rwanda.
Specialized laboratories have been set up across the country to fast-track testing and bolster Kenya’s defense against the deadly virus.
KEMRI Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, made the announcement at the Mtwapa Research Facility in Kilifi, underscoring the importance of rapid diagnostic capabilities.
“These facilities will allow for swift testing of samples, strengthening our ability to respond effectively and ensuring Kenya’s readiness against the disease,” he said.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health reported its first-ever cases of MVD on September 27, 2024.
As of October 2, the country has confirmed 36 cases, with 11 fatalities. Disturbingly, 19 of the infected are healthcare workers, primarily those in intensive care units, highlighting the heightened risk faced by medical staff.
“KEMRI is actively supporting efforts to manage the outbreak in Rwanda, where over 70% of those affected are frontline healthcare workers. This raises serious concerns for the region,” Prof. Songok noted.
Marburg Virus Disease is a rare but highly fatal viral hemorrhagic fever caused by either the Marburg or Ravn virus, both of which are closely related to the Ebola virus.
The disease has no approved treatment or vaccine, making prevention and early detection crucial.
Symptoms include fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.
Prof. Songok urged the public to be vigilant and report any potential symptoms.
“We must remain cautious and follow preventive measures. KEMRI is working closely with global health partners to ensure the public is kept informed and protected,” he emphasized.
MVD spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, including blood, saliva, urine, and other secretions.
Given its mode of transmission, the virus poses a significant threat in healthcare settings, particularly in regions where intensive care resources are strained.
The Kenyan Ministry of Health has also ramped up public health surveillance, sample testing, and community engagement to prevent the virus from crossing into the country.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa reassured Kenyans that, as of now, no cases have been reported in the country.
“We have received an alert from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the MVD outbreak in Rwanda. As of today, no cases have been detected in Kenya,” said CS Barasa in a statement on Friday.
In addition to KEMRI’s efforts, Kenya is working in tandem with the WHO and regional partners to enhance its preparedness and response strategies, ensuring the country is equipped to deal with any potential spread of the virus.
Specialized laboratories have been set up across the country to fast-track testing and bolster Kenya’s defense against the deadly virus.
KEMRI Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, made the announcement at the Mtwapa Research Facility in Kilifi, underscoring the importance of rapid diagnostic capabilities.
“These facilities will allow for swift testing of samples, strengthening our ability to respond effectively and ensuring Kenya’s readiness against the disease,” he said.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health reported its first-ever cases of MVD on September 27, 2024.
As of October 2, the country has confirmed 36 cases, with 11 fatalities. Disturbingly, 19 of the infected are healthcare workers, primarily those in intensive care units, highlighting the heightened risk faced by medical staff.
“KEMRI is actively supporting efforts to manage the outbreak in Rwanda, where over 70% of those affected are frontline healthcare workers. This raises serious concerns for the region,” Prof. Songok noted.
Marburg Virus Disease is a rare but highly fatal viral hemorrhagic fever caused by either the Marburg or Ravn virus, both of which are closely related to the Ebola virus.
The disease has no approved treatment or vaccine, making prevention and early detection crucial.
Symptoms include fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.
Prof. Songok urged the public to be vigilant and report any potential symptoms.
“We must remain cautious and follow preventive measures. KEMRI is working closely with global health partners to ensure the public is kept informed and protected,” he emphasized.
MVD spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, including blood, saliva, urine, and other secretions.
Given its mode of transmission, the virus poses a significant threat in healthcare settings, particularly in regions where intensive care resources are strained.
The Kenyan Ministry of Health has also ramped up public health surveillance, sample testing, and community engagement to prevent the virus from crossing into the country.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa reassured Kenyans that, as of now, no cases have been reported in the country.
“We have received an alert from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the MVD outbreak in Rwanda. As of today, no cases have been detected in Kenya,” said CS Barasa in a statement on Friday.
In addition to KEMRI’s efforts, Kenya is working in tandem with the WHO and regional partners to enhance its preparedness and response strategies, ensuring the country is equipped to deal with any potential spread of the virus.
