- Marburg virus outbreak reported in Rwanda and Tanzania.
- Rwanda’s outbreak, declared over in December 2024, resulted in 66 cases and 15 deaths.
- A new suspected outbreak in Tanzania has led to eight fatalities.
- The virus, highly contagious and deadly, is similar to Ebola.
- WHO is providing support for both countries to prevent further spread.
In late 2024, Marburg virus outbreaks struck both Rwanda and Tanzania, causing widespread concern. This disease, highly contagious and deadly, has claimed multiple lives in the region. The outbreak in Rwanda was declared over on December 20, 2024, but another suspected outbreak in Tanzania has raised new alarm.
The Marburg virus, which is similar to Ebola, can result in rapid death due to hemorrhagic fever. The virus’s outbreak in these two countries underlines the continuing threat of viral hemorrhagic fevers in Africa.
Marburg Virus Spreads in East Africa: A Growing Crisis
Rwanda experienced its first Marburg virus outbreak in September 2024. By December, the country had confirmed 66 cases, with 15 deaths. With WHO’s help, Rwanda contained the virus, and no new cases appeared for 42 days, marking the end of the outbreak.
Though Rwanda controlled the situation, Uganda and Tanzania remained at risk due to the virus’s proximity. The source of the outbreak in Rwanda is still unclear, which raises concerns about the potential for more outbreaks in the region.
On January 10, 2025, Tanzania reported a new suspected Marburg outbreak in its Kagera region. WHO confirmed nine cases and eight deaths. The victims showed typical Marburg symptoms, including fever, diarrhea, vomiting blood, and severe muscle weakness.
The virus spreads through bodily fluids, putting health workers and close contacts at high risk. The Tanzanian Ministry of Health, with WHO’s assistance, is closely tracking contacts of the confirmed cases to prevent further spread.
Efforts are in place to protect high-risk individuals, especially health workers. The ongoing response is critical, and with the risk of more cases, constant vigilance remains essential to control the virus’s spread.
The Marburg Virus: A Silent Killer
The Marburg virus, a deadly pathogen related to Ebola, causes hemorrhagic fever, often leading to shock and death within days. It spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected humans or animals, such as fruit bats, which host the virus.
Symptoms start abruptly with fever, headache, and muscle pain. As the infection progresses, victims experience severe vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, bleeding occurs from the nose, gums, and skin.
The virus has a high fatality rate, with death rates reaching up to 88% depending on the outbreak. Its rapid onset and severe effects make it a highly dangerous threat.
Preventive Measures and Treatment
Currently, there are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments for the Marburg virus. However, supportive care, including hydration and blood transfusions, can improve patient outcomes. Researchers are exploring experimental treatments, and vaccines are in development.
To prevent further outbreaks, health experts recommend avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing strict hygiene, and using personal protective equipment in health settings. In high-risk areas, avoiding contact with fruit bats and not handling bushmeat is advised. The WHO has sent medical teams, diagnostic kits, and protective equipment to both Rwanda and Tanzania.
How Marburg Spreads and the Need for Swift Action
The Marburg virus spreads mainly through contact with bodily fluids like blood, vomit, and feces. It can also transfer via contaminated bedding, clothing, or materials touched by infected individuals. Close contact with an infected person poses the highest risk.
Animals, such as fruit bats, African green monkeys, and pigs, can carry the virus. In regions with large bat populations, like East Africa, the risk of transmission is high. The virus can remain in the bodily fluids of survivors for months, making monitoring crucial.
The recent Marburg outbreaks in Rwanda and Tanzania stress the need for global cooperation. While Rwanda has contained its outbreak, Tanzania’s situation requires careful monitoring. Preventing future outbreaks depends on stronger health systems, rapid responses, and raising public awareness.