Rwanda Begins Pioneering Trials in Marburg Vaccine Development

Rwanda is set to launch clinical trials for experimental vaccines and treatments against Marburg disease. The initiative, announced by Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana, aims to combat the country's first outbreak, which has resulted in 11 deaths. The trials involve collaboration with the WHO and international pharmaceutical companies.

Rwanda is gearing up to begin clinical trials for vaccines and treatments targeting Marburg disease, marking a significant stride in its battle against the viral fever's first outbreak in the nation. Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana revealed the plans, following the deaths of 11 people linked to the disease since its detection in late September, with 36 cases currently reported.

Nsanzimana emphasized the efforts to expedite recovery through specially developed vaccines and medicines in collaboration with the World Health Organization and pharmaceutical companies from the U.S. and Europe. The WHO has granted ethical approvals for these trials and is working to secure similar consents from Rwandan authorities.

Further, the WHO is facilitating access to vaccine and treatment doses for trials with support from the Canadian government and the European Union's Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority. The Marburg virus, related to Ebola, poses a significant threat with symptoms including high fever and a potential fatality rate of up to 88%, making these trials crucial for public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)