Marburg Virus: Suspected Outbreak Claims Eight Lives in Tanzania

author
2 minutes, 54 seconds Read

A suspected outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus in northwest Tanzania has resulted in the deaths of eight people and infected nine, according to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO).

This development comes just weeks after an outbreak in neighboring Rwanda was declared over.

Details of the Suspected Outbreak

The outbreak has been reported in Tanzania’s Kagera region, a remote area bordering Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi.

WHO revealed that it received reports on January 10 of individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with Marburg virus disease (MVD). T

hese symptoms include severe headache, high fever, back pain, diarrhea, vomiting blood, muscle weakness, and external bleeding.

Samples from two suspected patients have been sent to Tanzania’s national laboratory for testing to confirm the outbreak.

Meanwhile, WHO and Tanzanian health authorities are monitoring the situation closely, having identified and begun tracking the contacts of the infected individuals, including healthcare workers who may have been exposed.

What is the Marburg Virus?

Marburg virus, a highly infectious hemorrhagic fever, belongs to the same virus family as Ebola, the Filoviridae family. The disease is primarily transmitted to humans through fruit bats, which are abundant in East Africa.

Once a person is infected, the virus can spread rapidly through direct contact with bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, and urine, or through contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing.

The disease has an alarmingly high fatality rate, ranging from 24% to 88%, depending on the outbreak and the quality of care available.

Early symptoms often mimic other febrile illnesses, making early detection and containment critical.

Regional Concerns and History

The suspected outbreak in Kagera comes less than a month after Rwanda declared the end of its Marburg virus outbreak on December 20.

The Rwandan outbreak infected 66 individuals, killing 15 over the course of several weeks.

This is not the first time Tanzania has faced Marburg virus challenges. In March 2023, Kagera experienced a similar outbreak that claimed six lives and lasted nearly two months before being controlled.

The proximity of the outbreak to international borders has heightened concerns in neighboring countries.

Kenya, which shares a border with Tanzania, has issued a high-alert advisory to healthcare facilities and communities, particularly in regions adjacent to Kagera.

The aim is to prevent cross-border transmission and ensure rapid response if cases are identified.

Efforts to Contain the Virus

WHO and Tanzanian health officials are working swiftly to control the suspected outbreak. Measures include isolating suspected cases, monitoring contacts, and educating communities on the risks and prevention of the virus.

WHO has also emphasized the need for protective equipment and training for healthcare workers, who are at high risk of infection due to their close contact with patients.

Efforts to contain the virus are critical to preventing its spread. Rapid testing, isolation, and supportive treatment can significantly reduce mortality rates and limit transmission.

Public health education campaigns are being intensified to raise awareness about symptoms, transmission methods, and preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with fruit bats and practicing stringent hygiene.

Video courtesy: Youtube/African News

The suspected Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania underscores the ongoing threat posed by viral hemorrhagic fevers in East Africa.

While public health authorities are taking robust measures to contain the outbreak, its high fatality rate and potential for rapid transmission demand urgent and coordinated international efforts.

As the situation unfolds, the global health community will be closely monitoring developments in Tanzania and neighboring regions to prevent the further spread of this deadly disease.


Similar Posts