A Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak was confirmed by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health on November 14 in the South Ethiopia Region, marking the first occurrence of this disease in the country, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The confirmation came after laboratory testing of samples from a cluster of suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever. Genetic analysis conducted by the Ethiopia Public Health Institute (EPHI) indicated that the virus strain matches those reported in previous outbreaks across East Africa.
As of November 14, nine cases have been reported in Jinka town, which is currently the epicenter of the outbreak. WHO has stated that it is collaborating with various partners to assist the Ethiopian government in intensifying its response to contain the virus and end the outbreak.
A specialized team of responders with expertise in managing viral hemorrhagic fever outbreaks has been deployed, along with essential medical supplies and equipment. On November 15, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) announced its close cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Health of Ethiopia and EPHI to support rapid containment efforts.
The Africa CDC emphasized the activation of response measures by the Federal Ministry of Health, EPHI, and regional health authorities. These measures include enhanced surveillance, field investigations, strengthened infection prevention and control, and community engagement initiatives.
Swift actions and transparent communication have facilitated early confirmation and containment efforts, according to the Africa CDC. To further enhance coordination, the Africa CDC and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health plan to integrate Marburg virus response efforts with ongoing mpox preparedness and surveillance. This joint approach aims to optimize resources, accelerate early detection, and minimize the risk of regional spread.
It is anticipated that Africa CDC Director-General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, will meet with Ethiopia’s Minister of Health to evaluate additional support needs and reinforce cross-border readiness with neighboring countries.
Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus, which is transmitted to humans from fruit bats. The disease spreads among individuals through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected persons or contaminated materials.
Initial symptoms of MVD include high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Many patients may develop severe bleeding within a week of symptom onset, as reported by WHO. Although several promising medical countermeasures are undergoing clinical trials, there is currently no licensed therapeutic or vaccine available for effective management or prevention of Marburg virus disease.
However, early access to supportive treatment, including rehydration with appropriate oral or intravenous fluids and management of specific symptoms, can improve survival rates. Previous outbreaks and sporadic cases of Marburg virus disease have been reported in several African countries, including Angola, DR Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Source: New Times Rwanda
Key Points
- First Marburg virus outbreak confirmed in Ethiopia.
- Nine cases reported in Jinka town as of November 14.
- WHO and Africa CDC collaborating with Ethiopian authorities for outbreak response.
- No licensed vaccine or therapeutic available for Marburg virus disease.
