Marburg virus has been confirmed in the Kagera region of Tanzania, the second time the country has been affected by this fatal virus. President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced the detection and assured the public of the government's swift response to contain the outbreak.
Marburg virus is a highly virulent pathogen that belongs to the same family as Ebola virus. It is passed to humans by fruit bat and spread in the form of contact with direct body fluids of sick subject or contaminated objects. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pains, diarrhea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, uncontrollable bleeding. The virus has an estimated mortality rate of up to 88% and thus one of the most deadly pathogens in the world.
- January 14, 2025: The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a suspected outbreak in Kagera, with nine cases and eight fatalities.
- January 20, 2025: President Hassan announced one confirmed case of Marburg virus in Biharamulo District, Kagera Region. She also highlighted that the country had effectively contained the spread of disease.
Government's Response
After confirmation, the Tanzanian government sent a team of experts to Kagera to investigate and control the outbreak. Samples of suspected cases were analyzed at the Kabaile Laboratory in Kagera and the National Laboratory in Dar es Salaam. Only one of 25 samples tested positive with Marburg virus. President Hassan assured citizens/visitors that, "Tanzania is safe and we are ready to receive all visitors for tourism business", etc.
International Support
WHO is working together with the Tanzanian health authorities in controlling the outbreak. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the Tanzanian government' quick response and announced a financial contribution of $3 million for the response effort. He stated, "We believe that, as Tanzania successfully controlled the outbreak two years ago, the country will manage to control this disease as well".
Public Health Measures
Health authorities have expanded surveillance and contact tracing in Kagera and adjacent districts. The general public is informed to maintain good hygiene, to avoid close contact with suspected persons, and to report all symptoms to health officials timely. Although the outbreak has occurred, the WHO so far does not advise against any travel/trade restrictions of accessing Tanzania.
The quick response made by Tanzania against the Marburg virus outbreak showed that they committed to public health and safety. International organizations such as the WHO are helping to fight the virus and stop its further spread. The public is encouraged to be watchful and follow the health guidelines to efficiently control the outbreak.
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