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 receiving treatment at King Faisal Hospital. The virus spread further, infecting a healthcare worker at the same hospital and impacting other medical professionals, including at the University Teaching Hospital (CHUK). The Ministry of Health reported that 29 healthcare workers were infected, most from King Faisal Hospital and CHUK.
Investigations led by Dr. Nsanzimana revealed that the virus was contracted through a vast population of bats residing in a mining cave where the initial patient worked. Dr. Nsanzimana explained, “The infected mine worker’s immune system was able to fight the virus, allowing him to recover. However, he transmitted it to his wife, whose immune system was still vulnerable, particularly as she had recently given birth.”
In response, Rwanda’s health authorities are actively monitoring caves and mines nationwide to locate any further populations of bats that might carry the Marburg virus. Dr. Nsanzimana clarified that not all bats are virus carriers, emphasizing that Marburg-carrying bats are typically large, have elongated snouts, and feed on fruit in dark caves.
The Health Minister also urged Rwandans not to kill or drive away bats in fear, as these animals play an essential role in controlling insect-borne diseases, including dengue. “Bats consume up to 100,000 mosquitoes per night,” he said. “Without them, our skies would be swarming with mosquitoes, heightening the risk of diseases.”
Dr. Nsanzimana cited a neighboring country that attempted bat extermination, which led to a fivefold increase in mosquito-borne diseases among residents. Additionally, he noted that bats are crucial for plant pollination, aiding in the growth of various fruits. “If we kill bats, we may face hunger due to disrupted ecosystems, leading to uncontrolled pest populations and impacting food chains.”
To curb the spread of Marburg, vaccines are being administered to those at risk, particularly miners and those in close contact with infected individuals.
BY KAYITESI
