The World Health Organization has confirmed a suspected outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease in Tanzania’s Kagera region.
The outbreak, reported on January 10, 2025, has claimed eight lives out of nine suspected cases, representing a fatality rate of 89 percent.
The global health body disclosed this on Tuesday, noting that the source of the outbreak remains unknown. WHO highlighted the seriousness of the situation at the national and regional levels due to the Kagera region’s location as a major transit hub.
“Six people initially reported symptoms such as headache, high fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting blood,” WHO stated. “Later symptoms included external bleeding. Five of these cases resulted in death.”
Two patient samples have been sent for confirmation at Tanzania’s National Public Health Laboratory. The outbreak involves two districts, Biharamulo and Muleba, with healthcare workers among the affected.
Kagera experienced a similar outbreak in March 2023, lasting nearly two months and resulting in nine cases and six deaths. Zoonotic reservoirs like fruit bats, which are known to harbor the virus, are endemic to the area.
WHO said, “The outbreak has already spread across two districts, suggesting geographic expansion. Delayed detection and ongoing contact tracing mean there’s incomplete information about the spread.”
The regional risk remains high because Kagera borders Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Some suspected cases have been reported near these borders, raising fears of cross-border transmission.
National rapid response teams have been deployed to investigate and manage the outbreak. Measures include intensified surveillance, contact tracing, and the establishment of treatment units in affected areas.
Mobile laboratories have been set up in Kagera to aid swift diagnosis. WHO also stressed the importance of engaging communities and raising awareness to control the outbreak.
While there is no confirmed international spread, WHO warned about potential risks. “Kagera is connected to Tanzania’s capital and has an airport that links to international destinations,” it said. “This highlights the need for enhanced border surveillance.”
WHO has not recommended any travel or trade restrictions with Tanzania but urged individuals to take precautions to reduce exposure to the virus.
Marburg virus spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. WHO has advised communities to follow strict hygiene measures and report symptoms early.
“The global risk remains low, but vigilance is crucial,” the organization said.
