Marburg Virus Disease in Rwanda: The Role of Infection Prevention and Control in Reducing Transmission of Infectious Disease Outbreaks among Healthcare Professionals.

Abstract

Rwanda's first Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak resulted in 58 infections and 13 deaths within the first two weeks. Over 70% of cases occurred among healthcare professionals, highlighting the vulnerability of frontline workers and exposing critical gaps in the country's healthcare system, particularly in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Healthcare workers are essential to sustaining functional healthcare systems. However, they face a higher risk of infection and death at the onset of outbreaks, potentially due to lapses in IPC practices, thereby weakening the healthcare system. Routine and strict adherence to IPC measures would have protected healthcare workers and prevented the transmission of both known and emerging diseases. Thus far, Rwanda has successfully implemented containment strategies such as early detection, contact tracing, and isolation. However, this article argues that long-term investment in IPC protocols is essential to safeguard healthcare workers and ensure system resilience. Strengthening IPC measures and fostering a culture of safety are vital steps toward building a healthcare system capable of effectively managing future infectious disease outbreaks. This perspective article aims to raise awareness about the role of infection prevention and control in reducing the transmission of infectious disease outbreaks among healthcare professionals, motivated by the devastating consequences of the MVD outbreak on the health workforce in Rwanda.