RBC Director General, Prof. Claude Mambo Muvunyi, told IGIHE that after observing a resurgence of cases in several countries, an assessment was conducted to evaluate the local situation in Rwanda.

“After seeing an increase in infections in places like the United States, we carried out an evaluation and found that new cases had also emerged here,” he said.

Of approximately 16,000 tests conducted, 0.7% returned positive results. All individuals who tested positive are currently receiving appropriate medical care.

Prof. Muvunyi reported that most of the detected cases involved individuals who travel abroad frequently or had contact with international travellers.

“All confirmed cases are being treated using standard protocols, and they’ve been advised to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus,” he said.

Prof. Muvunyi emphasised that there is no cause for concern at this stage, as the cases are mild and resemble common flu symptoms. None of the patients is in serious condition.

“There’s nothing alarming. The confirmed cases are experiencing mild symptoms, and the overall infection rate is still below 1%,” he said, adding, “Anyone with flu symptoms should seek medical attention, avoid close contact with others, practice hand hygiene, and wear a mask if symptomatic.”

Global trends and a new variant

Countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States have also seen a spike in Covid-19 cases. A new variant, known as NB.1.8.1, now accounts for around 10% of global infections and has been identified in Northern Ireland and Wales.

Although this variant does not appear to cause more severe symptoms than previous ones, experts caution that it may be more efficient at entering human cells.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Covid-19 has continued to mutate between January and May. The current strain is considered the most rapidly spreading variant so far.

Since January 2025, the Omicron variant has spread widely across the United States, Australia, and Thailand, and remains dominant in China and Hong Kong.

RBC has assured the public that it is maintaining active surveillance and continues working to contain the virus.

Health Ministry urges caution

Earlier, through a social media post X, the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, urged the public to remain vigilant in the face of rising seasonal illnesses, including Covid-19, as the country transitions from the rainy season to the dry season.

"Maintain good hygiene and protect others if you have symptoms," he said.

Source: IGIHE