WASHINGTON: The United States government has issued a travel advisory urging American citizens to reconsider any plans to visit Rwanda due to the recent emergence of the Marburg virus.
The advisory has been elevated from Category 2 to Category 3 on a scale of 4, indicating a strong recommendation to do not travel.
The Marburg virus, which is part of the filovirus family that also includes the Ebola virus, is known for causing severe hemorrhagic fever.
Since the first reported cases on September 28, there have been 12 fatalities, with most victims being healthcare workers.
The mortality rate for this virus can reach as high as 88%, leading to severe fever and bleeding that affects multiple organs.
According to the Rwandan Ministry of Health, approximately 41 cases of infection have been documented. Given the gravity of the situation, the US State Department emphasised the importance of prioritizing health and safety in travel decisions.
