Ethiopia Confirms Three Fatalities in New Marburg Virus Outbreak

Ethiopia has confirmed three deaths from the Marburg virus. The outbreak was declared in the country’s southern Omo region. Health officials are actively responding to the public health threat.

The government conducted tests on 17 suspected cases. According to Reuters, a team from the World Health Organisation is now assisting with outbreak control. Neighboring South Sudan has issued a health advisory.

Outbreak Response and Regional Concerns

Health Minister Mekdes Daba stated there are currently no known active cases. Preventive measures are being implemented to contain the virus’s spread. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is also providing support.

The outbreak location raises significant concerns. Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya cited South Sudan’s fragile health system as a particular worry. This increases the risk of cross-border transmission.

Understanding the Marburg Virus Threat

The Marburg virus is a severe, often fatal illness. It originates in fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Contaminated surfaces like bedsheets can also transmit the virus.

Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, and muscle pain. Many patients develop severe hemorrhagic signs. Without treatment, the fatality rate can be as high as 88%.

There are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments. Supportive care is the primary treatment method. This makes public containment efforts critically important.

Health authorities are working to contain the new Marburg virus outbreak. Their swift response aims to prevent further community transmission. The situation remains fluid as investigations continue.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Marburg virus?

The Marburg virus causes a severe hemorrhagic fever. It is in the same virus family as Ebola. The disease often leads to high mortality rates in outbreaks.

How does the Marburg virus spread?

It spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. This includes blood, saliva, or urine. Contaminated surfaces and materials can also transmit the virus.

What are the symptoms of Marburg virus disease?

Symptoms begin with high fever and severe headache. Many patients then experience severe diarrhea, vomiting, and bleeding. The illness progresses rapidly after infection.

What is the death rate for Marburg virus?

The case fatality rate has varied in past outbreaks. It has historically ranged from 24% to 88%. The average rate is around 50%.

Which countries have had Marburg outbreaks before?

Previous cases occurred in Angola, Ghana, and Uganda. Outbreaks were also recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Kenya. Guinea confirmed a single case in 2021.