Key facts
- Preparedness exercises are key to rapid response during health crises.
- A Marburg virus simulation in Rwanda preceded an actual outbreak.
- A candidate vaccine was deployed in Rwanda within 10 days of the outbreak.
- Exercises improve efficiency and readiness for outbreaks.
Preparedness exercises for health crises are essential for ensuring rapid and effective responses, according to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The organization emphasizes that readiness is determined before an outbreak occurs, akin to 'gym training for disaster,' which ultimately saves lives and resources.
CEPI recently conducted an exercise in Indonesia, involving participants from across the region, including Australia, to simulate crisis response and align administrative components for quick action. Another exercise in Rwanda focused on the Marburg virus. Shortly after this simulation, Rwanda experienced an actual Marburg outbreak. Due to their prior preparation, the country was able to swiftly deploy a candidate vaccine within 10 days of the outbreak, establishing a proper clinical trial framework.
CEPI CEO Richard Hatchett discussed these events with Rwanda's health minister, highlighting how the exercise enabled a rapid and efficient response to the real-world outbreak.