Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has confirmed a Marburg virus outbreak in Kagera, following initial denials by health officials. One case has been confirmed, while health authorities are monitoring additional contacts. The World Health Organization reported high infectiousness and significant mortality rates associated with the virus. The government is responding proactively to manage the situation.
Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has confirmed an outbreak of the Marburg virus, an Ebola-like disease, after her health minister had previously denied any cases. At a recent press conference, she announced one confirmed case in Kagera, Northwestern Tanzania, while assuring that the government is prepared to face this health challenge, similar to a previous incident in 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) had earlier flagged a suspected Marburg outbreak in the same region, noting nine suspected cases and eight fatalities in recent days.
Despite the health minister’s claims that tested samples were negative for the virus, President Hassan announced the mobilization of a rapid response team to manage potential cases. The Marburg virus, known for its high infectiousness, manifests with severe symptoms including fever and vomiting, and has a mortality rate of approximately 50%. Alongside the confirmed case, 24 additional samples were tested, all returning negative results.
Notably, the reasons behind the reported eight deaths remain unsolved. Kagera has seen previous Marburg outbreaks, including a significant one that occurred in March 2023, leading to six deaths and lasting nearly two months. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, indicated that the global risk from Tanzania’s current outbreak is low and recommended international collaboration to halt the spread.
As a proactive measure, the African CDC has identified over 300 contacts for further monitoring and testing, predominantly health workers and individuals in direct contact with suspected cases. The Marburg virus transmits from fruit bats to humans, spreading through contaminated bodily fluids. While there are currently no specific treatments or vaccines available, research and trials are underway.
Marburg virus is a highly infectious disease similar to Ebola, characterized by severe symptoms and a significant mortality rate. It is transmitted from fruit bats to humans and can lead to severe outbreaks, particularly in regions where inter-country travel occurs, such as in Kagera, which borders multiple countries. In Tanzania, recent governmental health responses highlight the need for effective management of emerging infectious diseases, especially following the country’s previous Marburg outbreak.
The recent confirmation of a Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania underscores the importance of timely health communication and responses in managing infectious diseases. Despite the challenges posed by the virus, authorities are mobilizing resources and implementing monitoring strategies to control potential spread. Continuous collaboration and vigilance are essential for maintaining public health safety in regions at risk.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
