A suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Tanzania’s Kagera region has reportedly infected nine people and claimed eight lives, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This marks a concerning development just weeks after neighbouring Rwanda declared its own Marburg outbreak officially over.
MVD, formerly known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever, is a severe illness with an average fatality rate of 50%, though rates have ranged from 24% to 88% in previous outbreaks. The disease is closely related to Ebola and is transmitted to humans through Rousettus aegyptiacus fruit bats, the natural host of the virus.
Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated materials.
The outbreak in Tanzania, confirmed on January 10, has been reported in the Kagera region, which borders Rwanda. Patients have presented with symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle weakness, back pain, vomiting blood, and severe external bleeding. Samples from two patients are being tested at the national laboratory, while authorities are tracing contacts, including healthcare workers, to prevent further spread.
The Kagera region has faced similar challenges before. In March 2023, a Marburg outbreak in the area killed six people and lasted nearly two months. The recurrence highlights the virus’s persistent threat in East Africa.
Rwanda recently ended its own Marburg outbreak on December 20, which infected 66 people and resulted in 15 deaths. The proximity of Tanzania’s Kagera region to Rwanda raises concerns about cross-border transmission. WHO emphasized the importance of swift containment measures, including community engagement, which is vital for controlling outbreaks effectively.
Currently, no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for MVD exist, although several are under development. Early supportive care, including rehydration and symptomatic treatment, has improved survival rates.
The WHO was working closely with Tanzanian health authorities to confirm the outbreak and implement measures to mitigate its spread. The organization has reiterated the need for coordinated regional efforts to address infectious diseases, particularly in areas with limited health infrastructure.
The public is advised to practice preventive measures such as avoiding contact with bats, minimizing exposure to bodily fluids of infected individuals, and ensuring the proper use of protective gear in healthcare settings.
Anyone experiencing persistent symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and supportive care can significantly improve outcomes for those infected.
