The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed a Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania’s northwestern Kagera region after laboratory tests identified a positive case. This follows investigations into suspected cases of the disease, prompting both national and international health authorities to take immediate action.
Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan Announces Outbreak
On January 20, 2025, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan officially declared the presence of the Marburg virus in the country. The announcement, made alongside WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in Dodoma, comes just one week after Tanzania’s health minister previously denied any confirmed cases of the virus.
According to the president, laboratory tests conducted at Kabaile Mobile Laboratory in Kagera and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified a single individual infected with the Marburg virus. Fortunately, the remaining suspected cases tested negative. A total of 25 suspected cases have been reported as of January 20, all of whom are now under observation.
“The Marburg virus outbreak was confirmed through rigorous testing, but the situation remains under control,” President Hassan assured the public. “We are determined to tackle this challenge with the same vigilance we demonstrated in past outbreaks.”
Health Authorities Respond to the Outbreak
The WHO is working closely with Tanzanian health authorities to bolster key measures in response to the outbreak. These measures include surveillance, testing, treatment, infection control, and public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing further spread.
Dr. Tedros, speaking at the press conference, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the health crisis: “Now is the time for solidarity and commitment to protect the health of the people of Tanzania and the broader region.”
Understanding Marburg Virus Disease
Marburg virus disease, a highly contagious viral hemorrhagic fever, belongs to the same family of viruses that cause Ebola. The disease is known for its rapid onset, with patients typically experiencing high fever, severe headaches, and malaise, followed by hemorrhagic symptoms, including bleeding from the eyes. This condition is why the disease is sometimes referred to as “bleeding eye disease.”
The Marburg virus is primarily transmitted through fruit bats and spreads among humans via direct contact with bodily fluids from infected individuals or contaminated surfaces and materials.
Previous Marburg Outbreaks in Africa
This is not the first instance of Marburg virus in Tanzania. A previous outbreak was reported in March 2023, also in the Kagera region, where nine cases were confirmed, six of which resulted in death. The case fatality rate during that outbreak was approximately 67%.
The Marburg virus has also been reported sporadically in other African nations, including Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, and Equatorial Guinea.
No Proven Treatment or Vaccine Yet
While no licensed vaccine or treatment is available for Marburg virus, early intervention, including rehydration and symptomatic treatment, can improve survival chances. Ongoing clinical trials are testing several potential medical countermeasures.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, underscored the critical importance of rapid response efforts. “The government’s swift actions and the WHO’s support are crucial in preventing local and cross-border spread of the disease,” she said.
With health officials on high alert, both Tanzania and the global health community are focused on controlling the outbreak and safeguarding public health across the region.
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