Tanzania has confirmed a new outbreak of Marburg virus disease in its northwestern Kagera region. President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced that laboratory tests identified one positive case among 25 suspected individuals, with the remaining 24 testing negative.
Marburg virus, akin to Ebola, is a highly virulent pathogen causing hemorrhagic fever with a fatality rate of up to 88%. Symptoms typically include high fever, severe headache, and malaise, progressing to severe hemorrhagic manifestations within a week. The virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is collaborating with Tanzanian health authorities to enhance outbreak control measures, including surveillance, testing, treatment, and public awareness campaigns. Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the importance of swift action to prevent further spread, stating, “Now is the time for collaboration and commitment to protecting the health of all people in Tanzania and the region from the risks posed by this disease.”
This marks Tanzania’s second encounter with Marburg virus disease, following an outbreak in March 2023 in the same region, which resulted in nine cases and six fatalities. The recurrence underscores the need for vigilant surveillance and prompt response to emerging health threats.
While there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Marburg virus disease, early supportive care, such as rehydration and symptomatic treatment, can improve survival rates. The Tanzanian government, with support from international partners, is committed to containing the outbreak and safeguarding public health.
