Rwanda’s Health Ministry Reports 20% Surge in Flu Cases, Urges Public to Strengthen Prevention Measures

As heavy rains continue across many parts of Rwanda, the Ministry of Health has announced a 20% increase in influenza cases, a surge that has pushed both adults and children to seek medical care at higher rates. While urging citizens not to panic or assume the rise is linked to any new epidemic, health officials are calling for heightened preventive measures during this rainy season.

The Ministry of Health says the spike in flu infections comes at a time when health facilities nationwide are reporting larger numbers of patients suffering from persistent cough, fatigue, high fever and throat irritation symptoms consistent with seasonal influenza that typically intensifies during colder and wetter months.

Residents Say the Flu Situation Has Worsened

In districts such as Bugesera and Gasabo, residents describe the wave of flu cases as unusually intense, with many families reporting that multiple household members have fallen sick at once.

Florida Mukamana, a mother of two from Juru Sector in Bugesera District, says the illness caught her family off guard. “My two children have been sick for a week now. It started with watery eyes and mild coughing, but now they breathe heavily and barely sleep,” she said. “We feared it might be something more serious, but the doctor confirmed it is just flu that has become common during this rainy period.”

In Gasabo District, public transport driver Patrick Niyonsenga reports similar experiences at his workplace. “As soon as the rains began, I developed a high fever and a cough that wouldn’t go away. Many of my colleagues are sick too. This year’s flu seems much stronger and more widespread than usual,” he said.

Residents say continued awareness campaigns are necessary, especially to protect children and elderly people, who face greater risk of complications.

Health Minister Reassures Public: No Cause for Panic

Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana has reassured the public that despite the noticeable increase, the situation does not indicate a new or unusual epidemic. He emphasized that seasonal influenza tends to rise every year as temperatures drop and humidity increases. “People should not jump to the conclusion that this is another pandemic,” Dr. Nsanzimana said. “We have observed a 20% increase in flu cases, but this pattern is familiar and expected during the rainy season. We encourage the public to remain calm, take preventive measures seriously, and seek medical care whenever symptoms intensify.”

The minister added that proper hygiene and responsible health practices remain the most effective tools to limit the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Ministry Issues Updated Preventive Guidelines

To help reduce further transmission, the Ministry of Health is advising the public to adopt the following measures consistently:

Wash hands frequently with clean water and soap

Dress warmly to protect the body against cold temperatures

Avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting flu symptoms

Take children to the health facility promptly if they develop severe signs of illness

Keep sick children at home and avoid sending them to school to prevent infecting others

The Ministry also stressed the importance of monitoring younger children, who tend to be more vulnerable to respiratory infections during the rainy season.

As the country navigates this seasonal spike, health officials say community vigilance, early treatment, and preventive behavior will be key to keeping the situation under control.