Tanzania has confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in the Kagera region, marking its second outbreak in two years. President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced the news in Dodoma during a press briefing with the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Lab tests confirmed one positive case, while 25 suspected cases from Biharamulo and Muleba districts tested negative. Authorities are closely monitoring all reported cases to contain the virus, which is linked to Ebola and causes severe illness with a fatality rate of up to 88%.
President Hassan assured the public that Tanzania has successfully managed similar outbreaks and will do so again. The WHO is supporting local health efforts, including surveillance, testing, and public awareness campaigns to prevent further spread.
Dr. Tedros emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to protect public health. Meanwhile, the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has pledged $2 million to help Tanzania combat the outbreak by deploying a team of public health experts.
The Marburg virus, spread through contact with infected bodily fluids or fruit bats, has no approved vaccine or treatment. Early care, like rehydration, can improve survival chances.
This is Tanzania’s second experience with the virus since March 2023, when nine cases and six deaths were reported. Neighboring countries, including Uganda, Ghana, and Kenya, have also faced previous outbreaks.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that no cases have been detected in Nigeria, although it remains on high alert due to the virus's high infection risk. Measures like health declaration forms and passenger screening are in place for travelers from affected regions.
The Tanzanian government is urging the public to stay calm, follow health guidelines, and report any suspected cases immediately.
