Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda

30.10.2024

Question for written answer  E-002316/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Leire Pajín (S&D)

Rwanda is currently facing its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease – identified by the WHO as having epidemic or pandemic potential – with a total of 56 cases and 12 deaths reported to date (8 October 2024).

The WHO has stated that there is an urgent need to provide all necessary support to Rwanda and neighbouring countries (Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Uganda) to control the Marburg virus outbreak.

With a view to enhancing the prevention, preparedness and response capacity of low-income countries to ensure a global and coordinated response to health threats:

• 1.What measures will the Commission take to provide tangible tools – vaccines, secondary prevention measures, antiviral treatments, monoclonal antibodies – to Rwanda and neighbouring countries to control the Marburg virus?
• 2.What measures does the Commission intend to take to strengthen the capacity of low-income countries to carry out research projects and implement epidemiological studies, clinical trials and actions to control endemic diseases?
• 3.What measures does the Commission intend to take to strengthen the health systems themselves in low-income countries, including the construction of hospitals or the training of local health workers?

Submitted: 30.10.2024