The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recently praised the United States government for lifting the Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Marburg in Rwanda. The advisory had been in place since October 7, 2024, and had restricted nonessential travel to Rwanda, impacting both American citizens and the nation’s economy.
Rwanda’s swift and transparent response to the Marburg outbreak, declared on September 27, 2024, was commendable. The Africa CDC mobilized resources and experts to support Rwanda in containing the outbreak, which was identified as a zoonotic disease originating from bats with a high fatality rate.
The Director General of Africa CDC demonstrated strong leadership by prioritizing Africa’s health crises and working closely with Rwandan officials to manage the outbreak effectively. The collaboration between Africa CDC and Rwanda led to containment within the country’s borders, preventing further spread regionally and internationally.
Following Rwanda’s progress in containing the outbreak, the Director General appealed to the U.S. government to reassess and lift the travel advisory. The official declaration of the end of the Marburg outbreak is expected on December 12, 2024, pending 42 days with no new confirmed cases since October 30, 2024.
Africa CDC emphasized the importance of global solidarity and cooperation in responding to health crises, advocating against travel bans as a primary response mechanism. The organization recognized the United States as a crucial partner in Africa’s health sector and expressed commitment to strengthening partnerships for robust outbreak responses.
President Kagame’s call for sustainable resource mobilization to support African health institutions was echoed by Africa CDC. A meeting scheduled for February 14, 2025, in Addis Ababa will bring together African Heads of State, private sector leaders, philanthropists, and global partners to discuss funding solutions for health systems across the continent.
In conclusion, Africa CDC remains dedicated to safeguarding the health of Africans and contributing to global health security. The organization is committed to building a resilient and self-reliant Africa, with the support of global partners and stakeholders.
This article was distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
