Rwanda Implements Quarantine and Vaccination to Contain Rift Valley Fever
Authorities enforce livestock quarantine, close markets, and conduct household inspections and vaccinations in affected provinces to control the Rift Valley Fever outbreak.
Authorities enforce livestock quarantine, close markets, and conduct household inspections and vaccinations in affected provinces to control the Rift Valley Fever outbreak.
· Updated
Rwanda is containing a Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak through quarantine measures, vaccination campaigns, and market closures affecting cattle, goats, and sheep. The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board initially quarantined livestock in six districts on June 26, later extending it to the entire Eastern Province and parts of the Northern Province.
Local leaders and community health workers are conducting door-to-door inspections to enforce prevention guidelines and report symptoms. Vaccination sites have been established in villages, and insecticides are distributed to control parasites. Bars and restaurants in the Eastern Province are only serving fish and chicken.
The Northern Province launched a vaccination campaign in Kinigi Sector on July 13, with officials urging residents to follow preventive measures. Over 6,000 veterinary council members have received Infection Prevention and Control training to manage the outbreak.
The Minister of Agriculture stated that vaccination efforts over the past two months are showing positive results and could soon allow the resumption of livestock sales. However, the ministry could not provide specific numbers on animal deaths or vaccinations.
FAQ
What areas are under quarantine due to Rift Valley Fever?
The entire Eastern Province and several districts in the Northern Province are under quarantine, except for Gakenke District.
What measures are being taken to control the outbreak?
Measures include livestock quarantine, vaccination campaigns, household inspections, market closures, and distribution of insecticides.
