CDC Implements Screening Measures for Travelers from Rwanda Amid Marburg Virus Outbreak

The CDC will implement screening for travelers from Rwanda starting the week of October 14, aiming to prevent the spread of the Marburg virus amid an outbreak that has confirmed 56 cases and resulted in 12 deaths in Rwanda. The risk to the U.S. public remains low, yet precautionary travel advisories have been issued, urging travelers to watch for symptoms.

U.S. health authorities have confirmed that all travelers arriving from Rwanda will undergo screening for the Marburg virus. Effective from the week of October 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will implement public health entry measures for individuals who have been in Rwanda within the past 21 days. This action aims to mitigate the risk of the virus being imported into the United States and subsequently spreading within communities. As of the most recent reports, Rwanda has registered 56 confirmed cases of the Marburg virus, with 36 individuals currently in isolation for treatment and 12 reported fatalities. Fortunately, no cases have been detected in the United States thus far. Travelers from Rwanda will be directed to one of three U.S. airports: Chicago O’Hare, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, or Washington Dulles International Airport, where they will be required to engage with CDC staff for temperature assessments and to report any symptoms such as sore throat, vomiting, or rashes. The Marburg virus is known to cause severe hemorrhagic fever and can lead to internal bleeding, similar to Ebola. The disease is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids including blood and semen, and currently, there exists no specific treatment or vaccine. The fatality rate associated with the virus can be as high as 88%, based on evaluations by the World Health Organization. Although the chance of an outbreak occurring in the United States remains low, precautionary measures have been enacted. Alongside the screening protocols, the CDC has issued a Level 3 travel health notice advising against non-essential travel to Rwanda. The advisory also suggests that any individuals who must travel to the infected region remain vigilant for symptoms for up to 21 days following exposure. Prompt isolation and medical consultation are urged if symptoms develop, which may include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, rash, chest pain, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding or bruising.

The Marburg virus is a highly infectious pathogen that poses serious health risks, leading to severe hemorrhagic fever and often fatal outcomes, with a death rate that can reach as high as 88%. The initial outbreak in Rwanda has raised alarms due to its contagious nature and the absence of available vaccines or treatments. Health authorities are taking preemptive measures to prevent the virus from spreading to the United States, recognizing the importance of monitoring international travel and potential exposure risks. The CDC’s actions exemplify the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety during health crises and to manage emerging infectious diseases effectively.

In summary, the CDC is instituting screening protocols for travelers from Rwanda to prevent the Marburg virus from entering the United States, in light of the recent outbreak which has resulted in numerous cases and fatalities within Rwanda. Vigilance and prompt reporting of symptoms are crucial for those traveling from the affected region, as portioned by the CDC’s health notices. Observing these protocols will aid in safeguarding public health and minimizing the risk of contagion.

Original Source: www.usnews.com