Category: Health

Dusengiyumva met with senior faculty and staff to discuss ongoing projects, including partnerships with the University of Rwanda and UMST’s planned expansion in Kigali.

“UMST’s commitment to healthcare and medical training is clear. The City of Kigali is ready to support initiatives that bring more medical services and learning opportunities to our community,” he said.

A highlight of UMST’s plans is the construction of a state-of-the-art hospital and student hostels in Busanza Sector which will provide both medical services and housing for students.

Mayor Dusengiyumva praised these plans, noting that they align well with the city’s vision for community health and education. “Projects like these are essential for Kigali’s future. They ensure access to healthcare and create a supportive environment for medical students,” he noted.

On his part, UMST Chancellor Professor Mamoun Homeida shared insights on the university’s journey since 1996, as well as its focus on medical education, research, and service in Rwanda.

“Our goal has always been to contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s healthcare system and to train future medical professionals. This planned hospital and student accommodation are steps toward creating an integrated learning and healthcare environment.” said Prof. Homeida.

Homeida also expressed appreciation for the support UMST has received from the Rwandan government, highlighting that the new facilities will be instrumental in addressing healthcare needs and improving student life. “Your support has allowed us to invest in Kigali and build a foundation for medical education here,” he said.

The meeting included a campus tour where the Mayor and UMST leadership inspected the school’s infrastructure and equipment, demonstrating their commitment to collaborate in strengthening Kigali’s healthcare capacity and educational resources through joint efforts.

Each type can also be Rh-positive or Rh-negative, which makes a total of eight blood types. Here’s what each blood type means, why it matters, and what health implications it can have.

Whether you need a blood transfusion, are pregnant, or simply want to stay informed about your health, knowing your blood type is essential. It’s a simple fact that can impact your health decisions and understanding of your body’s unique needs.

Blood Type A

People with Blood Type A have A antigens on their red blood cells and B antibodies in their plasma, which help the immune system identify foreign invaders. Blood Type A can receive donations from Type A and Type O, and it can be given to those with Type A and AB blood.

Health-wise, some studies suggest that people with Type A blood might have a slightly higher risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Although these health risks are small, they highlight that different blood types can have unique traits that may affect health in various ways.

Blood Type B

For those with Blood Type B, B antigens are present on red blood cells, while A antibodies are in the plasma. Blood Type B can receive blood from Type B and Type O donors and is compatible for donation to both Type B and AB recipients.

People with Blood Type B may be at a slightly higher risk for certain cancers, such as pancreatic cancer. However, they may have a somewhat lower risk of heart disease, showcasing once again that blood types can have connections to specific health risks.

Blood Type AB

Blood Type AB has both A and B antigens on the surface of red blood cells but has no A or B antibodies in the plasma. This blood type is known as the “universal recipient” because people with AB blood can receive blood from all types—A, B, AB, and O. However, they can only donate blood to other AB recipients.

There is some research suggesting that Type AB may have a slightly higher risk of cognitive decline and certain cardiovascular conditions. This could be due to the way AB blood interacts with specific proteins in the body, which may influence overall health in the long run.

Blood Type O

Type O blood has no A or B antigens on red blood cells but has both A and B antibodies in the plasma. Type O is often referred to as the “universal donor,” particularly for O-negative, meaning that it can be donated to people of any blood type. However, Type O individuals can only receive blood from other Type O donors.

Individuals with Blood Type O may enjoy a lower risk of heart disease, but they can be more susceptible to stomach ulcers and certain infections. This suggests that Type O blood might have unique ways of affecting health due to the lack of A and B antigens.

The Rh Factor: Positive or Negative

Another important aspect of blood types is the Rh factor. This factor is a protein that can either be present (Rh-positive) or absent (Rh-negative) in the blood. Rh-positive people can receive both Rh-positive and Rh-negative blood, while Rh-negative individuals should ideally receive only Rh-negative blood to prevent immune reactions.

Rh compatibility is especially crucial in pregnancy. If an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby, her body may create antibodies against the baby’s blood, potentially causing complications. Doctors often manage this with a special injection to prevent these issues and ensure the health of both mother and child.

Key facts to remember

Knowing your blood type is valuable for many reasons. Blood compatibility is crucial in transfusions, as mixing incompatible blood types can cause dangerous immune reactions. For instance, O-negative is known as the universal donor, meaning it can be given to anyone, while AB-positive is the universal recipient, able to receive blood from any type without issues.

Research has shown that blood types may also relate to health risks and disease resistance. Different blood types carry different immune responses, which can slightly impact susceptibility to certain conditions, though these risks are generally small.

In emergencies, understanding your blood type helps ensure you receive the right type of blood quickly, and it’s also beneficial for people considering organ transplants. Blood type compatibility between donors and recipients can make a life-saving difference.

He made the disclosure on Thursday during a press briefing on the Marburg outbreak, co-hosted by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

“We expect around 5,000 doses of Remdesivir for emergency treatment of patients that are highly in need,” he said.

Rwanda confirmed its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak on September 27.

Reports show that five people have recovered, 11 have died, and 21 others are still receiving medical care.

In addition to receiving antiviral treatment, Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted ongoing discussions with several organizations to accelerate the development and distribution of a Marburg vaccine, which could be available in Rwanda in the near future.

Rwandan health authorities are working diligently to contain the spread of the virus.

Africa CDC Director General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, reassured travelers that the situation is under control.

“We are flying to Rwanda. I will be in Rwanda, attending meetings. It’s an outbreak that is managed and, as we have outbreaks in all other countries, there is no travel ban. And I repeat it: travellers should not cancel their trips to Rwanda,” Kaseya emphasized.

The Africa CDC has confirmed that it will send specialists to Rwanda next week to support the country’s efforts in managing the outbreak.

Health officials note that individuals infected with Marburg may remain asymptomatic for three to 21 days, although some cases develop symptoms sooner.

Initial symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue, followed by gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting. As the disease progresses, the condition worsens as the body deteriorates.

To prevent infection, health experts recommend maintaining strict hygiene practices and avoiding the sharing of personal items with individuals exhibiting Marburg-like symptoms.

In addition to the five recoveries, it was noted that no fatalities were reported on the same day. Of the 1,009 new tests conducted, one person tested positive, bringing the total number of patients currently receiving medical treatment to 21.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, expressed optimism in a post on X, stating, “Today, five have recovered. They are in good health and will return home tomorrow. Let’s thank the healthcare workers who attended to them. We will defeat Marburg.”

Health officials have explained that Marburg can be contracted without showing symptoms for three to 21 days, although symptoms may sometimes appear sooner.

The initial symptoms of the disease often resemble other illnesses, particularly malaria, and include sudden high fever, severe headaches, joint pain, muscle aches, and digestive problems such as diarrhea and vomiting.

As the illness progresses, symptoms worsen, causing the body to deteriorate. Medical experts note that early treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery.

To prevent further transmission, health authorities are urging Rwandans to maintain proper hygiene and avoid sharing personal items with individuals showing symptoms similar to Marburg.

Rwandan authorities have also disclosed that efforts to contain the outbreak are underway, with vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials set to begin in the near future.

Additionally, international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United States, and the United Kingdom have pledged their support for Rwanda’s response to the disease.

This initiative marks a critical step in combating the outbreak that has impacted the country since September 27, 2024.

As of October 2, 2024, the Ministry reported 36 confirmed cases of Marburg in Rwanda. Of these, 25 individuals are currently receiving medical care. However, the disease has claimed 11 lives, including one death recorded on October 2.

Dr. Yvan Butera, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, stated that 410 people who have been in contact with infected individuals are being closely monitored for testing to break transmission chains.

Initial tests have shown that none of these contacts are infected, pending further clinical and lab workouts.

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) noted that while no specific treatment or vaccine currently exists for Marburg, promising progress has been made in research.

Presently, patient care focuses on alleviating symptoms, and early treatment which significantly improves the chances of recovery.

Dr. Butera announced that Rwanda will soon initiate trials for both a vaccine and therapeutic treatment, prioritizing those at high risk of infection.

“We are about to start vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials to protect high-risk groups,” he stated.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, disclosed that vaccinations could begin within the next two weeks.

“Yes, we expect to start soon […] though we haven’t finalized the exact date yet,” he said.

The vaccines and treatments to be used are in the final stages of clinical research. Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted that Rwanda is working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) to fast-track the process.

Those at highest risk of contracting the virus include healthcare workers, individuals involved in the burial of Marburg victims, and those who have been in contact with infected individuals.

Early symptoms of Marburg are similar to other diseases such as malaria and typhoid and include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The virus spreads through contact with bodily fluids or blood of an infected person or by touching contaminated objects and surfaces.

Following the confirmation of the outbreak in Rwanda, several measures have been implemented to contain its spread.

These include the suspension of visits to patients recovering in hospital wards and boarding school visits.

The Ministry of Health announced on Sunday night that only one caregiver per patient would be allowed at a time.

Besides, various countries, including the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), along with the WHO, have pledged their support for Rwanda’s efforts in combating the disease.

As contact tracing and testing continue, the government urges the general public to maintain a high level of vigilance and hygiene to curb the further spread of the virus.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Marburg virus spreads from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals. It can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces or materials, such as bedding and clothing. This transmission can occur through broken skin or mucous membranes, like those found in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

The incubation period, which is the interval from infection to the onset of symptoms, varies from two to 21 days.

Key symptoms include the sudden onset of a high fever, severe headaches often accompanied by body weakness and muscle pain. Nausea and vomiting, along with abdominal pain and diarrhea, are also common.

According to WHO, many patients develop severe hemorrhagic manifestations between five and seven days, and fatal cases usually exhibit some form of bleeding, often from multiple areas, including the nose and gums.

Here are five key preventive measures for this virulent disease:

1. Avoid contact with infected individuals

To reduce the risk of spreading the Marburg virus in communities, WHO advises that close physical contact with Marburg patients should be avoided. Gloves and appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn when caring for ill patients in hospitals and at home.

2. Practice good hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with sick people or their belongings.

3. Wear protective clothing

If you’re caring for someone infected or working in a high-risk environment (e.g., healthcare workers), wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and gowns to avoid direct contact with blood or bodily fluids.

4. Avoid contact with wildlife

Marburg virus can spread through contact with infected animals, especially fruit bats and non-human primates. Humans are advised to avoid touching or consuming bushmeat.

5. Seek medical attention immediately

WHO advises that if you develop symptoms of Marburg virus, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, or a rash, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Currently, the United Nations health agency states that there are no vaccines or antiviral treatments approved for Marburg virus disease. However, supportive care—rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids—and treatment of specific symptoms can improve survival.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting Rwanda via his X account, stating, “Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has reported cases of Marburg. WHO is scaling up its support and will work with the government of Rwanda to stop the spread of the virus and protect people at risk.”

On Friday, September 27, 2024, the Ministry of Health confirmed cases of MVD and announced heightened measures to prevent further transmission of the virus.

In a statement, the ministry reported that the disease, which causes severe haemorrhagic fever, has been confirmed in “a few patients in health facilities across the country,” and that investigations are underway to identify the source of the infection.

The ministry has urged anyone experiencing symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, muscle pain, and stomach aches to contact the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) via its toll-free number 114 or visit the nearest health facility.

Marburg virus disease, part of the same viral family as Ebola, causes severe haemorrhagic fever, leading to multiple organ failure and, in many cases, excessive bleeding. The virus can affect both humans and nonhuman primates and is zoonotic, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans.

According to WHO, initial human infection with the Marburg virus typically occurs after prolonged exposure to mines or caves inhabited by colonies of Rousettus bats, which are natural carriers of the virus.

Once a person is infected, the virus can spread through human-to-human transmission via direct contact with blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids from an infected person, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces and materials, such as bedding and clothing.

The virus was first identified in 1967 in the German city of Marburg, during an outbreak linked to laboratory work involving African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda.

Since then, outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in countries including Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Uganda.

Normally, stunting manifests in delayed physical growth, impaired cognitive development, and increased vulnerability to illness. Prevention involves proper maternal nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, good hygiene, and ensuring access to nutritious foods and healthcare during early childhood.

In Rwanda, efforts to address stunting and promoting maternal and child health through antenatal and early childhood interventions are intensely underway with an ambitious stunting prevention trial set to begin in 2025.

This impending trial is seen as a significant step forward in combatting stunting and improving maternal and child health especially in rural Rwanda by assessing whether providing comprehensive antenatal and postnatal care can reduce stunting and significantly enhance health outcomes for mothers and their children.

A recent stakeholders’ meeting held in Kigali disclosed that the trial, involving 60 health centers in rural areas, will compare two groups; one receiving current antenatal and postnatal care and the other receiving a more comprehensive package, which includes advanced tools for pregnancy monitoring and additional nutritional support for children.

According to Dr. Edgar Kalimba, a senior consultant pediatrician at King Faisal Hospital and Principle Investigator (PI) in the project, the study will focus on the first 1,000 days of life—a crucial period for child development.

“We aim to measure various outcomes, including maternal weight gain during pregnancy, the prevalence of preterm births, low birth weight, and the number of children who are stunted by the age of two,” Kalimba elaborated.

The trial will also monitor children’s cognitive and social development, alongside maternal health indicators such as hemoglobin levels and pregnancy duration.
A unique aspect of the trial will be its sub-studies investigating the predisposing conditions of stunting, such as epigenetic factors and diving into the root causes to gain deeper insights.

It is planned that prenatal interventions will follow both national and international guidelines and include low-dose aspirin, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and L-arginine supplementation. Early enrollment in antenatal care will be strongly advocated to ensure timely intervention for pregnant mothers.

Postnatal care will align with the latest World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommendations which stipulate nine scheduled visits, including a home visit from birth to 24 months.
These visits will include health assessments, growth monitoring, and family support, supplemented by small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements for children aged 6 to 18 months.

“This trial could transform how we address stunting and maternal health in rural areas, potentially serving as a model for broader healthcare improvements across the country,” Kalimba noted.

Along with other co-PIs, Kalimba will work with the Ministry of Health through Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) and the National Child Development Agency (NCDA) to ensure that the outcomes of the clinical trial are quickly scalable across the country.

This initiative reinforces the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle stunting and improve maternal and child health in Rwanda. The results could shape future policies and interventions, offering a blueprint for stunting prevention not just in Rwanda but across similar settings globally according to officials from the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Aline Uwimana, Head of the Maternal, Child, and Community Health Division at RBC says that Rwanda’s intensity in combating child stunting is part of its National Strategy for Transformation 2 (NST2), which aims to reduce stunting rates from 33% to 15% by 2029.

One of the key initiatives is the upcoming stunting prevention trial, which is expected to bring significant advancements in understanding and addressing the root causes of stunting. The trial will focus on nutrition, maternal health, and innovative approaches to combat the socioeconomic inequalities that contribute to stunting.

“This upcoming stunting prevention trial will provide critical insights into the effectiveness of various interventions we have implemented. It will allow us to fine-tune our strategies, particularly in addressing the gaps that still exist among the most vulnerable communities,” she said.

Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS), which have already shown promising results in other regions will be included and this is viewed as a game-changer for pregnant women and young children in Rwanda.

“The MMS has been proven to reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight and preterm births. By starting this trial, we aim to gather concrete data that will help us scale up this intervention nationwide, ensuring that all pregnant mothers have access to the necessary supplements to protect their health and that of their children,” she explained.

The trial is also expected to benefit from Rwanda’s multi-sectoral approach, which combines nutrition, healthcare, education, and water and sanitation improvements.

According to her, it’s not about just distributing supplements; it’s about creating an environment where every child has access to nutritious food, clean water, and quality healthcare. This will provide the evidence needed to strengthen these connections and improve the overall well-being of the Rwandan child.

One of the key goals of the trial is to address the socioeconomic inequalities that have contributed to stunting in Rwanda. Research shows that intergenerational transfer, including maternal health and nutrition, accounts for 31% of the inequality in stunting. Uwimana pointed out that the trial would focus on closing this gap.

“By targeting the most affected groups, we can ensure that the benefits of our programs reach every corner of the country. This trial will help us identify the most effective ways to reduce stunting, particularly among children whose families have been hardest hit by socioeconomic disparities,” she explained.

Dr. Uwimana is confident that this project will pave way for more extensive and sustainable programs not only for Rwanda but other countries facing challenges of child stunting.

“By investing in cutting-edge research and evidence-based strategies, we are ensuring that future generations of Rwandan children will grow up healthier, stronger, and ready to contribute to the country’s development,” she emphasized.

The 2025 stunting prevention trial represents a crucial step in Rwanda’s ongoing battle against child stunting. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to data-driven strategies, the country is setting a strong foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future.

“Yes, the number has risen. Two more cases have been reported, bringing the total to six,” Niyingabira told IGIHE.

The first case was confirmed in July, with the initial four cases involving individuals who had recently traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

More than 22,000 suspect cases, with more than 1,200 suspected deaths, have been reported in DRC since January 1, 2023.

In response, Rwanda recently launched its first phase of a vaccination campaign, aiming to vaccinate 10,000 people. This initiative focuses on high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, cross-border traders, hospitality staff, and others likely to be exposed to the virus.

Sources indicate that the vaccination of 10,000 individuals is expected to be completed within one week.

Across Africa, 2,912 new Monkeypox cases have been reported within a week, including 374 new infections and 14 deaths. The spread of a new variant, referred to as clade 1b, has raised concerns, with cases detected in the DRC, Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda.

On September 13, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the use of the MVA-BN vaccine for Monkeypox. This vaccine had already been authorized in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

Developed by Danish pharmaceutical company Bavaria Nordic A/S, the vaccine is administered to individuals aged 18 and older in two doses. The second dose is given four weeks after the first. In Rwanda, the current vaccination campaign is administering a single dose of 0.5 ml.

Research indicates that the first dose of the vaccine provides 76% protection against Monkeypox, with the second dose increasing protection to 82%.

Symptoms and treatment of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms usually appear three to 14 days after infection. The virus typically causes a rash that starts on the face, hands, and genital areas, but it can spread to other parts of the body. The rash consists of fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry up and form scabs as the individual recovers.

In addition to the rash, patients often experience fever, which may be mild or severe, and fatigue.

With appropriate treatment, most patients recover within two to three weeks after symptoms first appear.

In a message shared on its social media platforms on the evening of September 19, 2024, the Ministry of Health emphasized that this vaccination effort is part of Rwanda’s ongoing strategy to prevent and combat the spread of MPox, a virus that has affected many African countries, including Rwanda, where cases have already been reported.

Julien Mahoro Niyingabira, spokesperson for the Ministry, recently told IGIHE that Rwanda’s approach to preventing MPox focuses on vaccinating those at greatest risk. He clarified, “We will not begin by vaccinating everyone. Certain groups are more vulnerable, and they will be prioritized based on vaccine availability. As the situation evolves, additional groups may also be considered for vaccination.”

The African Union is coordinating vaccine distribution across several African nations, assisting in the containment of MPox on the continent.

In Rwanda, all four individuals who contracted MPox in July have received treatment and been discharged. Health authorities have reassured the public that the country is well-equipped to manage and treat MPox cases, should more arise.

Meanwhile, the outbreak has significantly impacted the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has recorded over 22,000 cases and more than 715 deaths in 2024.

The virus has now spread to 22 of DRC’s 26 provinces and is present in 13 other African countries. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has allocated $600 million over six months to combat the virus globally.

Health officials continue to stress the importance of preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and avoiding sexual contact—both protected and unprotected—to prevent the virus’s transmission.

MPox symptoms typically manifest within three to fourteen days of infection and include a rash that primarily affects the face, hands, and genitals.

The rash begins as small fluid-filled blisters that dry out and form scabs as the patient heals. In addition to the rash, individuals may experience fever, fatigue, and weakness.

Recovery generally takes two to three weeks, and none of the patients treated in Rwanda have required prolonged hospitalization or succumbed to the virus.

Rwanda has reported cases of the less severe grade 1B strain of MPox, similar to that found in the DRC. In contrast, West Africa has seen cases of the more severe grade 2 strain.