Based on guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) wishes to provide the following update on Marburg Virus Disease (MVD).
Since the first cases were identified, Rwanda has responded swiftly and proactively to contain the virus. Marburg, though serious, is not airborne and is only transmitted through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces of infected individuals.
Travel Guidance
- Rwanda remains open to travelers: There are currently no travel restrictions in place, and all key tourist destinations, including Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, Gishwati Mukura National Park and Nyungwe National Park, are fully operational.
- Enhanced hygiene measures: All hospitality and tourism establishments, including hotels and restaurants, and stakeholders such as tour operators and tour guides, are following strict hygiene protocols. This includes hand sanitizing stations, temperature checks, and heightened cleaning procedures.
- Health and safety: Tourists are advised to remain vigilant and practice good personal hygiene, such as avoiding close contact with individuals displaying symptoms such as high fever or severe headaches.
- Medical facilities: Rwanda’s healthcare system is well-equipped to manage public health issues, with isolation and treatment facilities in place for any potential cases of Marburg. In the unlikely event that you need medical care, rest assured that hospitals are fully prepared and safe for all visitors.
What travelers should do
Monitor your health: If you experience any symptoms during your visit to Rwanda or after returning home, seek medical advice immediately.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Severe headaches
- Muscle ache
- Vomiting and diarrhea
As part of public health measures to prevent the spread of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) and in line with the Travel Advisory issued recently, the following is mandatory upon departing from Rwanda, effective immediately:
Departure
- Travelers should monitor for MVD symptoms, including fever, severe headaches, muscle ache, vomiting and diarrhoea, before departing from Rwanda and seek medical advice immediately if they experience these symptoms.
- Expect routine temperature checks using Thermo-Scan Cameras, and the use of hand sanitizing stations.
- All passengers exiting the country will be asked to answer a short symptom-screening questionnaire with RBC staff to ensure their well-being and the safety of others.
- Alternatively, passengers can complete a declaration form here, download the QR code, and present it upon arrival at the airport.
What to expect when traveling to Rwanda
At points of entry
Expect routine temperature checks, and the provision of hand sanitizing stations at airports and other border crossings. All passengers exiting the country will go through a short symptom-screening questionnaire with BC staff to ensure their well-being and the safety of others.
In public spaces
Hotels, restaurants, and tourism sites will have temperature checks, handwashing facilities and will implement additional health and safety measures to protect all visitors and staff.
Rwanda’s proven ability to manage public health challenges ensures a safe environment for all travelers. The country’s commitment to scientific and evidence-based responses, as demonstrated during the Covid-19 pandemic, remains a priority in safeguarding the well-being of everyone in Rwanda.