Nsanzimana attributed the relatively low fatality rate to the country’s early detection of cases, rapid isolation protocols, and the administration of supportive treatments, such as antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibodies, administered to critically ill patients.

“The earlier you detect, the better the outcome,” he noted, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis and immediate response.

Rwanda has also already administered over 200 doses of an investigational Marburg vaccine developed by the Sabin Vaccine Institute, he revealed. The vaccination campaign, which began this week, prioritizes healthcare workers and individuals in close contact with confirmed cases. The minister announced plans to expand the vaccination effort to additional high-risk groups in collaboration with international partners. “Our aim is to vaccinate as many people at risk as quickly as possible,” he added.

Despite the positive strides made, Nsanzimana acknowledged the need for more vaccine doses and indicated that Rwanda is actively working to secure additional supplies to protect healthcare workers and communities.

Rwanda has adopted an open-label approach to the vaccine trial to expedite protection for at-risk groups, Nsanzimana said. But due to the deadly nature of the disease, the initial protocol does not include a delayed-arm trial, but plans are in place to expand the study and consider alternative methodologies as more data becomes available.

“ Our focus now is on saving lives and preventing transmission. We can explore more complex trial designs as we move forward,” he said.

Criticism of Travel Bans

Amid growing concerns about travel restrictions, both Kaseya and Nsanzimana argued that imposing travel bans is counterproductive during outbreaks, as they may deter transparency and international collaboration. “Let us be guided by facts and science,” Nsanzimana stated, pointing out that Rwanda’s efforts to contain the virus should be viewed as a model rather than grounds for punitive measures. Kaseya added that the country’s centralized emergency response system and comprehensive cross-border surveillance demonstrate its preparedness and should be encouraged, not penalized.

The Africa CDC chief emphasized that travel advisories based on limited evidence could harm not only the affected country but also the global community by discouraging other nations from reporting outbreaks in a timely manner. He disclosed that following discussions, the U.S. government had agreed to consult with Africa CDC before issuing any future travel-related advisories regarding the continent. “We need to ensure that decisions are based on evidence and consultation with local health authorities,” Kaseya said. US officials have also praised Rwanda’s rapid outbreak response, in comments like one from Rwanda’s US Amassador Eric Kneedler on X, who called it a “model” for the region.

Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation and Surveillance

Kaseya and Nsanzimana also highlighted the need for cross-border cooperation and surveillance efforts aimed at containing the Marburg virus and preventing regional spread. Kaseya announced that Africa CDC is deploying rapid diagnostic testing and bolstering surveillance capabilities in neighboring countries to ensure that any potential cases are quickly identified and isolated. He revealed that more than 5,000 test kits have already been distributed to high-risk areas, and plans are underway to establish rapid testing stations at key border points.

Rwanda also revealed it has set up a centralized emergency response center that integrates all relevant services, including health workers, the military, police, and ambulance services. This coordinated approach, the minister said, allows for rapid deployment of medical personnel and other resources across the country. “The mechanism they put in place is impressive,” Kaseya said. “When a call comes in, they can locate an ambulance anywhere in the country, not just in Kigali, and deploy personnel quickly. ”