The critical role of emergency departments in managing infectious disease outbreaks: Lessons from the Rwanda Marburg virus response

African Journal of Emergency Medicine 2026 Open access

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Authors: Appolinaire Manirafasha, Jacob Carter, Laurent Gamy Kamunga, Ineza Nadine Vanessa, Mukarugwiza Florence, Doris Lorette Uwamahoro, Nkeshimana Menelas, Tsion Firew
DOI: 10.1016/j.afjem.2025.100941
Cited by: 0
References: 5

Abstract

The 2024 Marburg Virus Disease outbreak in Rwanda underscored the indispensable role of Emergency Departments in the early detection, containment, and management of novel infectious diseases. As public health crises continue to grow in complexity, the Emergency Department becomes uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between clinical care and public health responses. Using lessons learned from King Faisal Hospital, Rwanda during the outbreak, this report outlines how Emergency Departments serve as frontline defenses during crisis management and identifies strategies to strengthen and enhance their preparedness.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Disaster Response and Management Viral Infections and Outbreaks Research Emergency and Acute Care Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
African Journal of Emergency Medicine
Volume
16
Issue
1
Pages
100941–100941
Publication date
10 January 2026
Language
EN