No Ebola in Rwanda As Only Suspected Case Tests Negative, Confirms Rwanda Health Ministry

KIGALI, Rwanda, Aug. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Following previous reports of a patient who was identified in Rwanda with Ebola like symptoms, the Ministry of Health would like to inform the public that results from the samples that were taken from the patient for Ebola tests are negative. The tests were done at an internationally accredited laboratory.

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This implies that he does not have Ebola hemorrhagic fever. Currently, the patient is recovering well from malaria.

There is no Ebola in Rwanda but due to population movements, there is risk that Ebola can spillover to Rwanda at any time. The Ministry of Health urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases immediately.

Ebola hemorrhagic fever is a highly contagious disease transmitted from person to person and characterized by fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, sore throat, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pains and bleeding from all body openings. It is not an airborne disease.

The Ministry of Health through the emergency preparedness team continues to take actions for preparedness and response to prevent potential health risks that might be caused by Ebola.

Surveillance systems and emergency management systems are in place. Health workers have been trained across the country and are vigilant. This has enabled timely detection, notification and appropriate management of any suspected cases to safeguard Rwandans.

The Ministry of Health has elaborated plans to effectively respond should the disease occur within our borders.

For More information contact: RBC-Rwanda Health Communication Email or call Nathan Mugume Tel: +250788567373

SOURCE Rwanda Ministry of Health