WHO Confirms Fatal Suspected Marburg Virus Outbreak in Tanzania
Department of Research, Studies and International News 15-01-2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a deadly suspected outbreak of the Marburg virus in Tanzania, resulting in the loss of at least eight lives. The outbreak has raised significant concerns due to the virus’s high fatality rate and the potential for further spread.
According to a statement released by the WHO on Tuesday, nine individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with Marburg virus disease have been identified in two districts within Tanzania’s northwestern Kagera region. This area, known for its strategic location and high levels of cross-border travel, has heightened the risk of further transmission.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed the situation on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, warning that additional cases could emerge in the coming days as surveillance efforts intensify.
Laboratory tests are currently underway to confirm the outbreak. Samples collected from two patients have been sent to Tanzania’s national laboratory for analysis. Meanwhile, health authorities are closely monitoring individuals who have come into contact with infected patients, including healthcare workers, to prevent further spread.
The WHO has categorized the risk of further transmission within Tanzania and its neighboring regions as “high” due to Kagera’s position as a key transit hub. The region sees considerable movement of people to and from countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, creating additional challenges for containment efforts. However, the global risk level has been assessed as “low” at this time.
This outbreak follows shortly after another Marburg virus episode in Rwanda, which infected 66 people and claimed 15 lives before being officially declared over.
Marburg virus disease is a severe hemorrhagic fever with a fatality rate that can reach up to 88 percent. The virus belongs to the same family as Ebola and is transmitted to humans through fruit bats. Human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or tissues of infected individuals. Contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing can also facilitate the spread of the virus.
The symptoms of Marburg virus disease include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, and in some cases, significant bleeding. The disease progresses rapidly and often proves fatal.
At present, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Marburg virus disease. Efforts to manage the outbreak focus on supportive care, such as rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms, as well as measures to contain the virus and prevent further transmission.
As the situation develops, health authorities and international organizations are working to strengthen surveillance, provide medical support, and enhance public awareness to mitigate the impact of this deadly virus.
