Nine suspected cases of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), including eight deaths, were reported in Tanzania’s Kagera region. The outbreak spans two districts, Biharamulo and Muleba and presents a high case fatality rate (CFR) of 89%. WHO has issued a rapid alert to its Member States, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and medical response.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated: “The suspected outbreak underscores the critical importance of preparedness and rapid response in preventing the spread of deadly diseases.”
Key Findings
Symptoms: Patients presented with high fever, headaches, diarrhoea, hematemesis and external haemorrhage. Healthcare workers are among the suspected cases, raising concerns about nosocomial transmission.
High Risk: The outbreak coincides with the Kagera region’s status as a transit hub with cross-border connections to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Potential Spread: While the global risk is low, regional risk remains high due to delayed case isolation and ongoing cross-border movement.
Public Health Response
• National rapid response teams have been deployed for outbreak investigation and contact tracing.
• Mobile laboratories and isolation units have been established in the affected districts.
• WHO advises strict infection prevention protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe burial practices, and active case surveillance.
Advice for Medical Professionals
Doctors are urged to:
• Screen patients presenting with MVD-compatible symptoms.
• Report suspected cases promptly and ensure proper isolation measures.
• Implement WHO infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Global Context
This is the second MVD outbreak in the region within two years; the 2023 outbreak involved nine cases and six deaths. No licensed vaccines exist yet, though experimental candidates are under investigation. WHO calls for strengthened readiness and cross-border coordination to mitigate further risks.
For full WHO recommendations and updates, visit WHO Marburg Virus Advisory.
Doctors worldwide are encouraged to remain vigilant, especially those in high-risk zones or treating patients from affected areas. Early detection and robust IPC measures can significantly mitigate the disease’s spread.
