Tanzania has confirmed two cases of Marburg virus in the Kagera region. The outbreak now includes ten cases—two confirmed and eight probable. Nine people have died, giving the outbreak a 90% fatality rate.
The WHO first reported the outbreak on January 14. Tanzania officially declared it a confirmed outbreak on January 20.
What is Marburg Virus?
Marburg is a deadly virus similar to Ebola, with no approved vaccine. It spreads through close contact with infected fluids or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and severe blood loss. Late-stage symptoms involve heavy bleeding, vomiting blood, and organ failure.
The virus spreads from fruit bats to humans through bodily fluids. Monkeys can also spread the virus. A recent Rwanda outbreak was linked to bats in a mining cave.
Marburg does not circulate through the air like COVID-19. It requires direct contact with infected fluids on wounds or mucous membranes. Contaminated bedding, clothing, and surfaces can also spread the virus.
Fatality rates vary from 24% to 88%, depending on outbreak conditions. Marburg outbreaks officially end 42 days after the last patient tests negative.
There are no specific treatments, but vaccine trials are ongoing. Early treatment with fluids and symptom management can improve survival rates.
Healthcare workers face high risks due to patient contact. They may handle contaminated sheets, medical equipment, or suffer needle stick injuries.
What is the Risk of this Marburg Outbreak Spreading?
The current Marburg outbreak in Tanzania is in Biharawulo district. A 2023 outbreak there caused nine cases and had a 67% fatality rate.
Neighboring Rwanda saw a Marburg outbreak that ended on December 20. That outbreak had 66 cases and 15 deaths. Most victims in Rwanda were healthcare workers who treated early patients.
Kagera borders Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, raising concerns about further spread. The region is a major transit hub.
Officials have identified over 300 contacts, including 56 healthcare workers. Sixteen people had direct contact with suspected Marburg cases.
Delayed detection and ongoing contact tracing may uncover more cases. While global risk is low, regional spread remains a concern. Marburg has also been found in Angola, DRC, Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda.
The U.S. has never had a Marburg case, but one tourist was infected. She visited Uganda in 2008 but did not spread the virus.
What Efforts are Limiting the Marburg Outbreak?
So far, 31 Marburg tests have been conducted, with 29 returning negative. Zimbabwe sent a rapid response team and allocated $10.8 million for response efforts. Officials are considering experimental treatments and vaccines used in Rwanda’s outbreak.
Tanzania’s President Samia said the country has increased its response efforts. A rapid response team is now tracking all suspected cases.
The WHO is helping Tanzania improve outbreak control, testing, and treatment. Public awareness campaigns are underway to prevent further spread. Officials stress the need for collaboration to protect public health.
Africa CDC has coordinated efforts with Tanzania’s leaders. The agency pledged $2 million for outbreak response. Africa CDC is also sending 12 health experts to assist. The team includes epidemiologists, lab specialists, and infection control experts. Funds will support expert training, diagnostic improvements, and case management.
PCR test kits and genome sequencing tools are already being sent. Africa CDC will provide technical support to strengthen detection efforts. Their goal is to improve identification and monitoring of the virus.
Conclusion
Tanzania’s Marburg outbreak remains a serious public health threat. Officials are tracking cases, improving testing, and considering experimental treatments. Local, regional, and global authorities aim to prevent further spread.
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Logan Hamilton is a health and wellness freelance writer for hire. He’s passionate about crafting crystal-clear, captivating, and credible content that elevates brands and establishes trust. When not writing, Logan can be found hiking, sticking his nose in bizarre books, or playing drums in a local rock band. Find him at loganjameshamilton.com.
