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Showing posts from June, 2024

The Ebola Outbreak: A Fight Against Fear and Disease

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 How Ebola Struck Africa and Its Global Impact In the dense jungles of Central Africa, a deadly virus quietly lurked among the wildlife for centuries. Little did anyone know, that this virus, known as Ebola, would one day leap from animals to humans, causing a devastating outbreak. Ebola virus disease (EVD) emerged sporadically, but when outbreaks occurred, they struck with terrifying speed and severity. The first signs of Ebola infection are flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, muscle pain, and weakness. As the virus progresses, it can cause severe internal bleeding and organ failure. The mortality rate is shockingly high, ranging from 25% to 90% depending on the outbreak and the medical care available. This made Ebola not just a disease, but a nightmare for those affected. When Ebola outbreaks hit communities, fear spread faster than the virus itself. Entire villages could be quarantined, leaving people isolated and frightened. Health workers, clad in protective suits that resembled s

Central Africa: The Rwandan army provided free medical services to the population

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Central Africa: The Rwandan army provided free medical services to the population The Rwandan army, which is part of the (Battle Group VI), working in the mission of the United Nations in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), provided free medical services to the people of Bria, a village in Dahouga. In the event that took place on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, the medical services provided focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as malaria, respiratory diseases and those with stomach problems. Residents are also screened for non-communicable diseases including blood pressure and weight, and are offered dental and eye care services. The Mayor of Bria, Mr. Maurice Balekouzou, praised the good relations and strong friendship between Rwandans and Central Africans. He also thanked the Rwandan Armed Forces who are part of the MINUSCA mission for their great support in providing medical care to the people, which improves the general well-being of the people. Lt Col Tharcisse MPFIZ

Learn about 'Hemophilia' which can cause death or disability

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 Learn about 'Hemophilia' which can cause death or disability The Hemophilia Society, together with the Rwanda Health Center (RBC), is calling on people with symptoms of the disease to seek early diagnosis to prevent death or disability. Mujawimana Clementine, who lives at Muhima in Nyarugenge, has had 4 births in total, where the babies are born with bleeding, but after finding out that she is suffering from Hemophilia, she gave up. " I always go to the doctor where my 3 children are bleeding profusely, and I take them to medicate. The child may eat a piece of cake or chew a piece of chewing gum, and start bleeding from the mouth. " Majawimana says that she and her husband do not have a problem with bleeding, but that one of her older brothers has bleeding that lasts for a long time. Nsengiyumva Amos, 29 years old, says that he was born with Hemophilia and it was difficult for him for many years while the treatment for the disease had not arrived in Rwanda (before 20
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The Challenge of Marburg Virus Disease in Africa: A Persistent Threat ⓒfrom frontiersin Since its discovery in the 1960s, Marburg virus disease has posed a serious health challenge in Africa. This rare but deadly virus belongs to the same family as Ebola virus and is believed to originate from bats. It can cause severe illness in humans, with symptoms ranging from fever, chills, and headache to severe bleeding and organ failure. Outbreaks of Marburg virus disease have occurred sporadically in several African countries, often in regions where people come into contact with bats or caves inhabited by bats. The virus can spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or tissues, making healthcare workers and family members of patients particularly vulnerable. The signs of Marburg virus disease typically appear abruptly and progress rapidly. Early symptoms resemble those of influenza, such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue. As the disease advances, it can lead to more severe sy

The Battle Against Yellow Fever: A Tale of Two Continents

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Fighting Mosquitoes and Vaccinating Communities to Defeat Yellow Fever Yellow fever has had a significant impact on both Africa and South America from the 1960s to the present day. This viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti species. It can cause a range of symptoms, from mild fever and headache to severe cases involving jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), bleeding, and organ failure. In Africa, yellow fever outbreaks have been a recurring challenge, affecting communities across the continent. The virus thrives in tropical and subtropical regions where mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Rural areas are particularly vulnerable due to limited access to healthcare and vaccination services. Symptoms of yellow fever often start suddenly and include fever, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. As the disease progresses, some patients develop severe symptoms such as jaundice and bleeding. Without prompt medical care, yellow fever can be fatal, especial

The Eradication of Smallpox As A Triumph of Global Health

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  The Eradication of Smallpox As A Triumph of Global Health In the 1960s, smallpox was a widespread and deadly disease affecting millions around the world. Caused by the variola virus, smallpox caused high fever, body rash, and painful blisters that could lead to scarring or even death. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected individuals. Eradicating smallpox with speedboat Epidemiology Efforts to eradicate smallpox gained momentum in the 1960s with the introduction of a successful vaccine. Mass vaccination campaigns became a crucial strategy to control outbreaks and prevent the disease from spreading further. Health workers traveled to remote areas, reaching out to communities to ensure everyone received the vaccine. The signs of smallpox were distinctive: high fever followed by a rash that started on the face and spread throughout the body, turning into painful sores. Many who survived were left with deep scars, reminders of the disease

Fighting Cholera: A Global Battle for Clean Water

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 Fighting Cholera: A Global Battle for Clean Water Drinking water or eating food that is contaminated with a bacteria called Vibrio cholera In many parts of Africa and the world, cholera is a serious illness that affects many people. It is caused by drinking water or eating food that is contaminated with a bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. This bacteria can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and, if not treated quickly, even death. In Africa, where clean water can be hard to find, cholera outbreaks happen often. People who get sick with cholera can experience symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. These signs usually start suddenly and can make someone very sick within hours. Doctors and health workers play an important role in treating cholera. They provide patients with oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and salts. This treatment helps people recover faster and prevents severe dehydration. Communities also work together to pre

More about the eye disease that threatens Rwandans known as Amarundi

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More about the eye disease that threatens Rwandans known as Amarundi A few days ago in Rwanda, there was an eye disease called Amarundi, but it is usually called 'Viral Conjunctivitis'. This disease is spread mainly during winter through an insect called 'Adenovirus'. The one who caught it is characterized by symptoms like runny nose, headache, coughing, and more. On February 11, 2024, the Ministry of Health urged all Rwandans to take measures to prevent eye disease when it was discovered that it had arrived in Rwanda. It was after he had visited countries like Kenya and Tanzania for some time. This disease is transmitted through many ways such as public places, shaking hands with an infected person who has touched their face without washing it, using a device that they have used, and in other ways, according to the data. Those who have this disease are characterized by high fever, headache, cough, dehydration, severe cold, stuffy nose, and shortness of breath. It conti

80 new ambulances have been sent to the clinic

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 80 new ambulances have been sent to the clinic The Minister of Health, Dr Nsanzimana Sabin announced that on June 15, 2024, about 80 ambulances were sent to hospitals across the country. He announced this in an interview President Paul Kagame had with about 8000 health advisors from all over the country. Some of these Toyota Land Cruiser ambulances were parked in the morning at the Stade Amahoro, near the B.K Arena building, where the meeting with health advisors and President Kagame is taking place. In the National Council of Negotiation held on January 24, 2024, Minister Nsanzimana Sabin indicated that to provide immediate relief, Rwanda needs 500 ambulances. Minister Nsanzimana said: “Otherwise we would like it to reach the person in less than 10 minutes, more like 15 depending on the location of the caller. That's our goal, and at some point, we're starting to like it. But in the whole country, we have only 210 rescue stations, otherwise, we need at least 500.” On June 15,

The Quiet Threat of Fighting Tuberculosis in a Developing Village in Rwanda and Other Parts of the World

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The Quiet Threat of Fighting Tuberculosis in a Developing Village in Rwanda and Other Parts of the World In a small village nestled amidst lush green hills, life unfolds slowly and peacefully. People here know each other well, sharing stories over cups of sweet tea and homemade bread. But beneath this serene exterior, there lurks a silent threat that affects the lives of many – tuberculosis, or TB. Meet Amina, a young mother with a smile that lights up the room. She works tirelessly in the fields, caring for her children and tending to her elderly parents. One day, Amina begins to feel unusually tired. Her energy wanes, and a persistent cough creeps in, refusing to go away. Concerned, her family takes her to the village clinic where the nurse listens to her chest and orders tests. The results confirm their fears – Amina has tuberculosis. The news spreads quickly through the village, raising anxiety among neighbors who wonder if they too could be at risk. The clinic starts Amina on a st

Malaria in General and How to prevent it

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Malaria in General and How to Prevent It Malaria is a disease caused by parasites that are transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It has historically been one of the deadliest diseases in human history, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Here are some key points about malaria and its impact:   Global Impact: Malaria has had a profound impact on global health, especially in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of South America. It's estimated that malaria has been responsible for billions of cases and millions of deaths throughout history. High Mortality Rates: Malaria primarily affects vulnerable populations such as young children and pregnant women. In severe cases, it can lead to death if not treated promptly and effectively. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 2019 alone, there were about 229 million cases of malaria worldwide and over 400,000 deaths, with the majority occurring in Africa. Economic Burden:

HIV/AIDS Started Spreading In The 1980s Coursed a Big Impact

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 HIV/AIDS Started Spreading In The 1980s Coursed a Big Impact HIV/AIDS is a sickness that affects the body's immune system, which helps us fight off infections. It started spreading in the 1980s and has affected many people around the world. HIV is a virus that can be passed from person to person through certain body fluids, like blood or semen, during activities like unprotected sex or sharing needles. Decline in new HIV infections (blue line) and increasing coverage of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Rwanda, 2004-2015. Source: Institute of HIV/AIDS Disease Prevention & Control, Rwanda Biomedical Centre; reproduced with permission When someone gets HIV, it attacks their immune system over time, making it hard for their body to fight off other infections and diseases. This can lead to a sickness called AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), where the body becomes very weak and can't defend itself properly. HIV/AIDS has had a big impact on people's lives. Many peopl

COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus Disease 2019

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COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus Disease 2019  COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus Disease 2019, started in late 2019. It spread from a city called Wuhan in China to many countries around the world. The sickness is caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2.  The species  Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus : classifying 2019-nCoV and         naming it SARS-CoV-2 People can catch COVID-19 if they get close to someone who has it, especially if that person coughs or sneezes. The virus can enter the body through the mouth, nose, or eyes. Once inside, it can make people sick with symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Some people can get very sick and need to go to the hospital. Sadly, COVID-19 has caused many deaths worldwide. Because COVID-19 spreads easily from person to person, it has had a big impact on our lives. Schools and businesses closed to keep people safe. Many people had to stay home and couldn't see their friends and family. This made life ha

The United Arab Emirates Youth Empowerment Initiative ''An Interactive Discussion With Students At Mount Kigali University''

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The United Arab Emirates Youth Empowerment Initiative ''An Interactive Discussion With Students At Mount Kigali University'' In the city of Kigali, Rwanda, there was a big event happening at Mount Kigali University. It was called the United Arab Emirates Youth Empowerment Initiative. This event was all about helping young people feel strong and capable. Ambassador Hazza Mohammed Falah Kharsan AlQahtani fosters Youth Empowerment The UAE Ambassador stood before the eager students of Mount Kigali University, his presence commanding attention. With a warm smile, he began to speak, sharing stories of collaboration and friendship between the United Arab Emirates and Rwanda. His words carried a message of hope and possibility, inspiring the young minds before him to dream big and reach for the stars. As he spoke of the UAE's commitment to youth empowerment, the students listened intently, feeling a sense of pride and excitement. His speech sparked a fire within them, ignit