The Minister of Health Dr. Diane Gashumba has assured Rwandans that no single Ebola case has been registered since the epidemic’s outbreak in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, this is due to Rwanda’s readiness and preparedness to fight Ebola.

““We are ready as a nation, but we request the population to provide all information in case of Ebola symptoms which include; headache, fatigue, fever, vomiting, joints pains and bleeding,” said the Health Minister.

Dr. Gashumba made the remarks during a Radio and TV Live talkshow called “Intambwe Iganje” which took place on October 14th, 2018 on Television and Radio- Rwanda and community Radios of Rubavu, Rusizi, Musanze, Nyagatare and Huye. The health minister with different Rwanda Biomedical Centre and Ministry of Health senior staff explained how Rwanda is relying on prevention and preparedness to keep Ebola in check.

As part of prevention, Rwanda has increased awareness and community engagement throughout the country using different communication channels like; television, Radio, billboards in public places such as main Roads, borders and Airports. Also interpersonal communication in Health Facilities, hotels, and in public gatherings is ongoing.

The Head of Division Epidemiology and surveillance Response Dr José Nyamusore says ebola case management trainings for medical staff at health facilities, security organs, the Red-Cross volunteers, Community Health Workers are in place. Meanwhile Ebola screening is ongoing at all border posts to Rwanda including the high risk zones. Meanwhile 3 Health Facilities are equipped to receive and treat any Ebola cases that could emerge. The facilities are ; Nyarushishi in Rusizi District, Rugerero in Rubavu District and Gatsata of Kigali-City.

Meanwhile, laboratories in Rwanda have the capacity to screen for Ebola.

“The laboratory network has been strengthened over the years, Ebola can now be screened within the country and results can be provided in the shortest time possible,” says Dr.Zuber Muvunyi, the Head of Clinical services at the Ministry of Health.

During talkshow, some of the residents of Rusizi and Rubavu districts bordering the DRC testified about being sensitized on Ebola and its prevention.

As Rwanda fights on to ensure zero Ebola cases, all Rwandans are requested to avoid unnecessary travels to high risk areas, to continue good hygiene practices of handwashing and to report on sight ebola symptoms to the nearest healthcare providers.