The Ethiopian Ministry of Health announced the recording of the first outbreak of Marburg virus in the country’s history, after monitoring 9 confirmed cases in the Omo region bordering South Sudan.
The virus is a member of the “Filovirus” family, which also includes the Ebola virus, and is known for its high risk and high death rate among those infected.
The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, praised on social media platforms the “rapid and transparent response” from the Ethiopian authorities, considering that this reflects the country’s seriousness in controlling the outbreak early.
He stressed that the organization is working directly with the Ministry of Health to provide technical and logistical support, including enhancing diagnostic and isolation capabilities.
For his part, Director General of the Africa Center for Disease Control, Jean Cassia, warned that the proximity of the Omo region to South Sudan raises concern, given the weak health infrastructure there and the possibility of cross-border transmission of the virus.
So far, no cases have been recorded in other countries, but health authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
The nature of the virus and its danger
Marburg virus is transmitted primarily from Egyptian fruit bats, and can spread between humans through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated tools.
Symptoms include fever, rash, and severe bleeding. There is still no approved treatment or vaccine, as medical intervention is limited to supportive care such as hydration and rest.
The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has announced the isolation of infected people and the intensification of community screening operations, in addition to awareness campaigns urging citizens not to panic and adhere to the instructions of the health authorities. Contact tracing is also being done to ensure limiting the spread of the virus.
This outbreak comes at a time when the African continent is facing increasing health challenges, including the worst cholera wave in 25 years, which doubles the pressure on fragile health systems.
The Marburg outbreak in Ethiopia recalls the seriousness of emerging epidemics on the continent, and raises questions about the readiness of countries to confront such crises.