The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has elevated its travel advisory for Rwanda to its second-highest level, urging travelers to avoid nonessential trips to the East African nation due to a recent outbreak of Marburg disease. This announcement was made by the U.S. government on Monday.

In response to the outbreak, the CDC will implement screening measures for travelers entering the United States who have been in Rwanda within the past 21 days. This move aims to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus to the U.S. population.

To combat the outbreak, Rwanda has commenced the administration of vaccines against the Marburg virus, focusing initially on healthcare workers who are most at risk, as well as close contacts of confirmed cases. The government is prioritizing these groups to enhance their protection and contain the spread of the disease.

The Marburg virus is known for causing severe hemorrhagic fever, and while it is not as widely known as the Ebola virus, it poses significant health risks. The CDC’s advisory highlights the importance of precautionary measures for individuals considering travel to Rwanda during this public health crisis.

Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the situation and to consult health professionals for guidance before making travel decisions. The CDC continues to monitor the outbreak closely and will provide updates as necessary.