US Introduces Screening Measures for Travelers from Rwanda Amid Marburg Virus Outbreak

In response to the ongoing Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda, the United States recently announced increased health entry screenings for travelers arriving from East Africa. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will now implement these measures with the aim of preventing the spread of the virus that is similar to Ebola. “The risk of Marburg in the U.S. remains low, however, these measures are being taken out of an abundance of caution,” CDC spokesperson David Daigle stated.

The Marburg virus, which causes a severe fever and uncontrolled bleeding, was first identified in 1967 in Germany. It has a fatality rate of about 88% and has no approved treatment or vaccine, though supportive care can improve outcomes. The virus spreads through bodily fluids, making close contact necessary for transmission, thus it is not considered airborne.

As of recent reports, Rwanda has confirmed 62 cases of Marburg virus with 15 fatalities. The outbreak was first declared in late September when local health authorities noticed that treatments for suspected malaria cases were proving ineffective, leading to further investigations and the recognition of Marburg virus cases. According to Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, “We are seeing a positive trend, with new infections reducing by more than 50% compared to the initial weeks.”

In an effort to contain the virus, the U.S. has advised against nonessential travel to Rwanda. Travelers from Rwanda are directed to enter the United States through designated airports—such as New York’s John F. Kennedy, Chicago O'Hare, or Washington-Dulles—where they will undergo temperature checks and additional health screenings. Rwanda, on its part, has begun testing travelers at Kigali International Airport and land borders to prevent the spread.

The Sabin Vaccine Institute delivered 1,800 doses of an experimental vaccine to Rwanda. This vaccine has been administered to 856 individuals within high-risk groups, such as health care workers and close contacts of identified cases. “Once Rwanda clears its current cases and observes no new infections over several days, we plan to step back and contribute to broader research to prevent future outbreaks,” explained Dr. Nsanzimana.

The CDC, which has operated in Rwanda since 2002, is increasing its staff to support efforts against the outbreak by providing expertise and resources for infection prevention. Additionally, U.S. healthcare providers have been alerted to the possibility of Marburg cases and advised on necessary steps should a potential case be identified.

In Africa, other regions are also facing viral threats, such as the mpox virus, which has been spreading in countries like Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. According to the Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya, there is an urgent need for international support to address this crisis.