Rwanda has officially launched a vaccination campaign targeting healthcare workers and others at high risk of contracting the Marburg virus. This initiative aims to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of the virus.

On October 6, 2024, Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, alongside Dr. Brian Chirombo, the WHO Representative for Rwanda, updated journalists on the current status of the Marburg virus and the measures being implemented to combat its effects.

On October 5, 2024, Rwanda received 700 doses of a Marburg Virus vaccine in partnership with the Sabin Vaccine Institute from the United States. Vaccination efforts have begun with healthcare professionals, particularly those at the highest risk of infection. Additionally, the Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana announced the introduction of two medications to assist patients suffering from Marburg. These are: Remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies.

Responding to public concerns about the safety of the vaccine, Minister Dr Nsanzimana Sabin said: "People should not be worried. The Marburg vaccine being administered has undergone clinical trials in other countries, including Uganda and Kenya. It has been shown to be beneficial to those who have received it”. He stressed that the vaccine has reached the second phase of testing and has been thoroughly evaluated for safety and efficacy, following standard protocols for all vaccines.

On 8 October 2024, the Minister of State at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Yvan Butera, received the Marburg vaccine along with other frontline workers to increase the protection of frontline workers and strengthen Rwanda's defences against Marburg virus disease.

As of now, Rwanda has reported approximately 56 confirmed cases of Marburg virus infections, with around 12 fatalities attributed to the virus as well as 8 recoveries. The Ministry of Health remains committed to implementing robust measures to protect public health and manage the virus effectively.