KIGALI, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda's Ministry of Health has called for heightened preventive measures following reports of confirmed cases of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in the country.
In a statement released Friday, the ministry outlined ongoing efforts to contain the spread of MVD, which has resulted in the hospitalization of a few patients.
With investigations underway to determine the source of the infection, authorities have implemented enhanced preventive protocols across all health facilities, including rigorous contact tracing, and the affected patients have been isolated for treatment.
The health ministry explained that MVD is transmitted through contact with the blood or body fluids of visibly sick individuals, adding that the virus is not believed to spread through the air.
Members of the public experiencing symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, muscle pain, or stomach aches are urged to contact the Rwanda Biomedical Center or visit their nearest health facility, according to the statement.
While monitoring the situation closely, the Ministry of Health suggested that the public should remain calm and maintain their regular activities, provided they follow heightened hygiene and safety practices. ■