- Tanzania confirmed one case of the Marburg virus in the Kagera region.
- WHO supports the response with no trade or travel restrictions advised.
- Investigations continue into earlier reported deaths linked to the virus.
Tanzania has reported its second Marburg virus outbreak since 2023, with one confirmed case in the Kagera region. While initial reports suggested eight deaths from a suspected outbreak, authorities are still investigating the cause.
Marburg, a highly infectious hemorrhagic virus with a fatality rate of up to 90%, originates from fruit bats and is closely related to Ebola.
Swift Action as Tanzania Reports New Marburg Case
The Tanzanian government confirmed one case of the Marburg virus in its northwestern Kagera region, where the country experienced a similar outbreak in 2023. Investigations continue into earlier reported deaths in the community, which remain unlinked to the virus for now.
WHO has praised Tanzania’s immediate steps to manage the outbreak, including setting up testing facilities and treatment centers. The health body has assured that the global risk remains low, urging against unnecessary restrictions on trade or travel.
Marburg virus causes severe hemorrhagic fever with symptoms including bleeding and organ failure. The disease is transmitted from fruit bats and has a high mortality rate, demanding rapid containment efforts to prevent widespread impact.
Neighboring Rwanda recently ended a Marburg outbreak that claimed 15 lives, highlighting the region’s ongoing challenges with viral diseases. WHO’s proactive involvement in Tanzania underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating health crises.
The confirmation of Tanzania’s Marburg case highlights the necessity of vigilance and effective public health strategies to minimize the virus’s impact and ensure regional safety.
“Effective public health measures are our first line of defense against deadly outbreaks.”
