Health
Ethiopia Reports Outbreak of Deadly Marburg Virus, Nine Cases Confirmed
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Ethiopia has confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus, with at least nine cases detected in the southern region of the country. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) announced the outbreak following a report of suspected hemorrhagic fever two days earlier.
The Marburg virus is known for its high fatality rate, which can range from 25% to 80%. It causes severe symptoms such as bleeding, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Similar to Ebola, the virus is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids. The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, confirmed the cases on Friday.
Africa CDC stated that the National Reference Laboratory in Ethiopia has confirmed the diagnosis of Marburg virus disease (MVD). The virus strain involved shows similarities to strains previously identified in East Africa.
Health authorities in Ethiopia have acted quickly to confirm the outbreak in the Jinka area and to contain its spread. They are conducting community screenings and raising awareness about the disease.
“This fast action demonstrates the seriousness of the country’s commitment to controlling the outbreak quickly,” tweeted Tedros. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health is isolating affected individuals and treating them, while efforts continue to track anyone who may have come into contact with suspected cases.
The outbreak marks Ethiopia’s first encounter with the Marburg virus, previously seen in neighboring regions. In earlier incidents, a Marburg epidemic in Rwanda resulted in 15 deaths before being contained in late 2024.
There is currently no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment for Marburg virus, but supportive care, including hydration and treatment of symptoms, can improve survival chances.
As the outbreak unfolds, WHO is actively supporting Ethiopia with containment efforts and treatment for those infected. Health officials have urged the public to remain calm and follow health guidelines as investigations proceed.
