In response to the ongoing Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda, students at the University of Rwanda’s Huye campus are emphasizing the critical role of established hygiene facilities in preventing the spread of the disease. These facilities, which include handwashing and sanitizing stations, are part of the university’s comprehensive strategy to safeguard its community.
Marie Grace Uwamahoro, a third-year General Nursing student, expressed the importance of these facilities in halting the virus’s transmission.
“By adhering to hygiene protocols as mandated by the Ministry of Health, we can effectively combat the Marburg virus. I urge everyone to wash their hands before entering the campus, as we are a large community. Failure to do so could lead to a rapid spread of the virus,” Uwamahoro stated.
Reinforcing this view, Assoumpta Musekeweya, a third-year Political Science student, emphasized the importance of hygiene as a routine practice at the campus.
“Hygiene has become a habit for us. When students arrive at the gate, they are required to wash their hands thoroughly, ensuring that all dirt is removed. By respecting these protocols, we are contributing to our safety,” she noted.
The University of Rwanda has established a dedicated team to monitor these measures, as explained by spokesperson Ignatius Kabagambe.
“We have deployed both security and hygiene personnel to ensure compliance with handwashing and sanitization protocols at the campus entrance. No one is allowed to bypass these guidelines. Our students and staff demonstrate strong discipline and commitment to following these health measures,” Kabagambe said.
Currently, the Ministry of Health has reported 62 confirmed cases of Marburg virus in Rwanda, with 15 fatalities and 34 recoveries.
Athanase Munyarugendo | The Kaminuza Star