Rwanda to launch clinical trials for Marburg disease vaccines, treatments, boosting containment efforts

Rwanda is set to begin vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials for Marburg disease in the coming weeks, a significant step in the country’s response to its first outbreak of the viral fever. Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana announced the development, highlighting Rwanda’s collaboration with pharmaceutical companies and the World Health Organization (WHO).

“These trials represent a proactive effort to combat the spread of the virus and safeguard public health,” Nsanzimana said.

The Marburg virus, which is part of the same family as Ebola, has a high fatality rate of up to 88% and is transmitted from fruit bats to humans, with human-to-human transmission occurring through bodily fluids. The outbreak, first detected last month, has resulted in several deaths, and health authorities are closely monitoring individuals who have been in contact with confirmed cases.

Also Read: Libya’s resumed full oil production, boosting stability and economic prospects

With dozens of cases reported, the start of clinical trials demonstrates Rwanda’s commitment to deploying advanced medical solutions to contain the disease. The country is leveraging partnerships and scientific research to address the outbreak and protect its population, echoing regional efforts as neighboring Tanzania faced a similar outbreak last year.

This initiative is expected to play a key role in both treating current patients and preventing future outbreaks.