In response to an increasing Marburg virus outbreak, the CDC has recommended increased screening for visitors traveling from Rwanda.
Although the risk to Americans is still low, the United States advises caution as instances increase because there is now no licensed vaccination.
Under the widening outbreak in Rwanda, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Friday upgraded its measures to prevent the deadly Marburg virus from reaching US soil.
The three major international airports-the O’Hare International, Chicago; John F. Kennedy International, New York City; and Dulles International, outside Washington, D.C-will begin increased scrutiny of travelers coming from Rwanda starting 14 October.
Reports of the Marburg outbreak, which has already killed 12 and infected at least 56, raised concerns. Containment is critical since no licensed vaccine or treatment for the Marburg virus exists, like Ebola.
CDC spokeswoman David Daigle said, “We are taking these steps out of an abundance of caution, but the risk of Marburg in the U.S. remains low.”
Besides that, incoming passengers from Rwanda shall be screened for exposure and symptoms. Furthermore, Rwanda’s ministry of health has also enhanced their exit-bound visitors’ screening as they leave the country.
The high death toll of the virus had the CDC advise Americans to reassess their non-essential travels to Rwanda. An experimental vaccine has just begun development for vaccination of healthcare professionals at the frontlines in Rwanda, who were especially vulnerable to infections during the outbreak.
Outbreaks are usually contained when symptoms come up promptly. The CDC has placed guidelines cautioning travelers and health workers until the present outbreak is contained: increased fever; headaches; sore muscles.
