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First Confirmed Marburg Virus Outbreak in Ethiopia’s South Region
Addis Ababa-For the first time in Ethiopia’s history, the Ministry of Health has officially identified an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the southern part of the country. This confirmation came after laboratory tests on samples from a cluster of suspected viral hemorrhagic fever cases in Jinka town, South Ethiopia Region.
Genetic Insights and Regional Context
Genomic sequencing conducted by the Ethiopia Public Health Institute determined that the strain responsible matches those previously documented in East African outbreaks. So far, nine individuals have been diagnosed with the virus in this localized outbreak.
Comprehensive Response Measures Underway
In response, Ethiopian health authorities are intensifying efforts to contain the virus. Measures include widespread community screening, isolating confirmed cases, providing medical care, tracing contacts, and launching public education campaigns to raise awareness about the disease and its transmission.
The World Health Organization (WHO), alongside international partners, is actively supporting Ethiopia’s containment strategy. A specialized team with expertise in managing viral hemorrhagic fevers has been deployed, equipped with essential medical supplies and diagnostic tools to assist local health workers.
Understanding Marburg Virus Disease
Marburg virus disease is a highly lethal illness caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the same virus family as Ebola. The virus naturally resides in fruit bats and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with these animals or their secretions. Human-to-human transmission occurs via exposure to bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, or sweat from infected persons or contaminated objects.
Early symptoms typically include sudden onset of high fever, intense headache, muscle pain, and profound weakness. Within days, many patients experience severe hemorrhaging, which significantly increases the risk of fatality. Although no licensed vaccines or antiviral treatments currently exist, ongoing clinical trials are exploring promising therapeutic candidates.
Supportive care remains the cornerstone of treatment, focusing on rehydration through oral or intravenous fluids and managing symptoms to improve survival chances.
Marburg Virus in Africa: Historical and Recent Trends
Marburg virus outbreaks have sporadically occurred across the African continent, with notable cases reported in countries such as Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda. The emergence of this virus in Ethiopia highlights the expanding geographic footprint of viral hemorrhagic fevers in East Africa.
Looking Ahead: Vigilance and Preparedness
Given the high fatality rate associated with Marburg virus disease-estimated between 24% and 88% depending on the outbreak-early detection and rapid response are critical. Ethiopia’s swift mobilization of resources and international collaboration serve as vital steps toward preventing further spread and safeguarding public health.
