US lifts Rwanda travel advisory following Marburg containment
The United States has lifted its Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Rwanda after the successful containment of the Marburg virus outbreak, a move welcomed by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
The advisory, issued on 7 October 2024, had effectively restricted American travel to Rwanda, impacting the country's economy during its response to the outbreak. Rwanda had transparently declared the Marburg outbreak, identified as originating from bats, on 27 September.
Africa CDC deployed over 30 public health experts within 24 hours of the declaration, supporting Rwanda with laboratory networks, surveillance systems and community engagement strategies. The outbreak is expected to be officially declared over on 12 December 2024, following 42 days without new cases.
Rwandan Health Minister Dr Sabin Nsanzimana credited Africa CDC's support in containing the outbreak within Rwanda's borders. The organisation continues to advocate against travel bans as primary responses to health crises, emphasising the importance of global cooperation in managing outbreaks.
A meeting planned for February 2025 in Addis Ababa will bring together African leaders and global partners to discuss sustainable funding for continental health institutions.
Source: Africa CDC