WHO Image

التالى السابق

Tanzania Declares End of Marburg Virus Outbreak in Kagera Region

REPORTS - 30 day ago

Tanzania Declares End of Marburg Virus Outbreak in Kagera Region

South Eye | Report - Exclusive

Tanzania has officially declared the end of its second Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak after more than 42 days without any new cases. The announcement, made on March 13, 2025, marks a critical public health victory for the country, particularly for the north-eastern Kagera region, where both this outbreak and a previous one in 2023o ccurred.

The latest outbreak was declared on January 20, 2025, after laboratory confirmation of Marburg virus in two individuals. In total, the outbreak resulted in two confirmed and eight probable cases, all of whom succumbed to the disease. Despite the high fatality rate, Tanzanian health authorities, with support from international health organizations, swiftly mobilized resources to contain the spread of the virus.

Marburg virus, a member of the same family as Ebola, is a highly virulent pathogen that causes severe hemorrhagic fever, with case fatality rates that can reach 88%. It spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces, making early detection and isolation crucial in preventing further transmission.

In response to the outbreak, health officials implemented rigorous contact tracing, surveillance, and infection prevention measures. More than 200 contacts were closely monitored, and healthcare workers were trained in handling potential cases safely. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners played a key role in supporting Tanzania’s response, providing laboratory testing capacity, medical supplies, and technical guidance.

Despite the successful containment, the outbreak underscores the ongoing risk of viral hemorrhagic fevers in the region. Authorities have urged continued vigilance, emphasizing the need for early reporting of suspected cases, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and increasing public awareness to prevent future outbreaks.

With this declaration, Tanzania joins other nations in demonstrating that prompt, coordinated responses can effectively control deadly infectious diseases. However, the recurrence of Marburg virus in the country highlights the importance of sustained investment in epidemic preparedness and response mechanisms to safeguard public health.