Category: Health

Urgent Alert: Marburg Virus Outbreak Claims 16 Lives in Rwanda, Linked to Fruit Bat Infected Mines Near Kigali

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Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, recently confirmed that the Marburg virus, now responsible for 16 deaths in the country, was traced to fruit bats inhabiting caves in mineral mines near Kigali. The outbreak, which began in August and September, coincides with the breeding season of the bats, during which they emit more saliva, increasing transmission risk. Dr. Nsanzimana explained that a mine worker who had been infected returned home, sought medical attention, and recovered. Unfortunately, he unknowingly transmitted the Marburg virus to his wife, who later died while…

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Here Are Diseases That Are Taking Many Lives Despite Being Preventable

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Statistics from health authorities continue to show a troubling rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) severely impacting many lives. For example, the number of people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and other conditions is increasing at an alarming rate. However, these diseases can be prevented, often through simple and accessible means for everyone. Health is priceless! While there are well known and long established diseases, today, non communicable diseases are becoming more prevalent and claiming many lives. Unfortunately, many people are not taking proactive measures to prevent them. Today, Let’s Discuss…

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Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: A Public Health Update

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As Rwanda continues to grapple with the Marburg virus outbreak, recent reports indicate a cautiously optimistic trend in the nation’s battle against this severe viral disease. The country has recorded a total of 65 confirmed cases and 15 deaths since the outbreak began in late September​. In a recent interview, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers in managing the crisis. “Our healthcare professionals have shown remarkable dedication under challenging circumstances,” he stated. “They are on the front lines, and their safety and well-being remain a priority.”…

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The harmful effects of alcohol on health

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Many of us drink alcohol to relax and socialize. But drinking too much alcohol can negatively affect your physical and mental health, your actions, and your decision-making. There are many short and long-term side effects of alcohol consumption. No level of alcohol consumption can be considered safe. To reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury for healthy adults: drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week drink no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day But some people need to take more care. You…

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Rwanda’s Changing Family Dynamics: Analyzing the Decline in Births per Mother

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The number of children per mother in Rwanda has been steadily declining, reflecting significant changes in societal norms, access to education, and healthcare services. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped from 6.1 children per woman in 2005 to 3.8 children in 2022. This decline is a result of concerted efforts in family planning and women’s empowerment, reshaping family dynamics across the country. From Six to Four: The Journey of Fertility Decline In 2005, the average Rwandan woman had…

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Rwanda Denies Suppressing Information on Marburg Outbreak, Reports 58 Infections and 13 Deaths

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The Rwandan government has firmly denied allegations that it withheld information about the arrival of the Marburg virus in the country, emphasizing that it disclosed details as soon as they were available. This clarification came from the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, during a virtual press briefing held on Thursday. The initial cases in Rwanda were detected on September 27, 2024. On October 8, the Ministry of Health reported that there have been 13 fatalities and 14 recoveries among the 58 total confirmed cases. Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted Rwanda’s extensive…

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Mental Health in Rwanda: Addressing the Hidden Crisis

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In recent years, Rwanda has made strides in expanding access to mental health services, yet significant challenges remain. According to the 2018 Rwanda Mental Health Survey, trauma from the 1994 after the Genocide against the Tutsi continues to affect new generations, with an estimated 27.4% of youth aged 14-25 experiencing psychological issues like depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The lingering effects of the Genocide against the Tutsi, combined with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have heightened the need for mental health support in the country. Despite the government’s efforts,…

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Things you might not know about Mental Health

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Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of who they are, their age, background, abilities, or lifestyle. We are about to highlight some things you may not know about mental health. Many mental health issues are not necessarily severe or long-lasting. Often, when mental health is mentioned, people immediately think of serious mental illnesses. However, mental health can be seen as a state where someone was doing well and then started developing various conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an…

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Current Situation of HIV/AIDS in Rwanda

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Rwanda has made remarkable progress in combating HIV/AIDS over the past few decades. As of 2024, the country continues to strengthen its response to the epidemic, focusing on prevention, treatment, care, and support for those living with HIV. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, and ongoing efforts are crucial to maintaining and furthering the gains made so far. HIV Prevalence in Rwanda The prevalence of HIV in Rwanda is relatively low compared to other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. According to the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), the national HIV prevalence rate stands…

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OMS confirme que l’utilisation du téléphone mobile n’augmente pas le risque de cancer du cerveau

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Une étude approfondie commandée par l’Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS) a conclu que l’utilisation du téléphone mobile n’augmente pas le risque de cancer du cerveau. Cette recherche, l’une des plus grandes et des plus complètes jamais réalisées sur le sujet, apporte une grande tranquillité d’esprit à des millions d’utilisateurs de téléphones mobiles dans le monde entier. L’étude a analysé des données provenant de plusieurs pays, en examinant les habitudes d’utilisation à long terme des téléphones mobiles et leur lien potentiel avec le cancer du cerveau. Elle a impliqué un…

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