Health

The Government of Tanzania has intensified efforts to combat the Marburg virus outbreak, which has already claimed two lives since its declaration on January 19, 2025, by Tanzania’s President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan in Biharamulo, Kagera region.

Director of Preventive Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, announced on January 24, 2025, that measures include deploying expert teams in the area to provide treatment, raise public awareness about prevention, and identify symptoms. Alongside the two deaths, 15 suspected cases have been reported, with 281 contacts under observation.

Dr. Kapologwe revealed that 191 community health workers have been trained to serve all 10,893 households in Biharamulo District. Testing facilities, medicines, and 13 isolation centers with 64 health workers have been established. “We emphasize following health guidelines, providing accurate information, and combating misinformation,” he noted.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Grace Magembe commended the experts’ efforts during her visit to Biharamulo, stressing the importance of public education for prevention and urging health workers to use protective gear.

During her January 25 visit to the Mobile Community Health Laboratory in Misenyi, Dr. Magembe acknowledged the support of health sector partners and outlined the government’s Marburg response plan. Priority areas include research, laboratories, sanitation facilities, transportation, treatment, and border control. 

Speaking on behalf of the WHO, Dr. Dick Chamla lauded Tanzania’s proactive use of local resources. Partners like WHO, MDH, MSF, CDC Tanzania, UNICEF, and the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation have joined the response. Dr. Magembe affirmed, “Our goal is to eradicate this disease entirely. Let’s collaborate, and we assure you that resources will be used effectively.”

On January 26, she inspected the Kagera Regional Referral Hospital, expressing satisfaction with specialist care improvements that have eased the burden on local residents.

Read more:

As Tanzania grapples with Marburg Virus outbreak: What you need to know https://rcc.eac.int/node/153 

More photos: https://x.com/wizara_afyatz/status/1883489296700584205 and  https://x.com/wizara_afyatz/status/1883568102761288149

The Government of Tanzania has intensified efforts to combat the Marburg virus outbreak, which has already claimed two lives since its declaration on January 19, 2025, by Tanzania’s President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan in Biharamulo, Kagera region.

Director of Preventive Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, announced on January 24, 2025, that measures include deploying expert teams in the area to provide treatment, raise public awareness about prevention, and identify symptoms. Alongside the two deaths, 15 suspected cases have been reported, with 281 contacts under observation.

Dr. Kapologwe revealed that 191 community health workers have been trained to serve all 10,893 households in Biharamulo District. Testing facilities, medicines, and 13 isolation centers with 64 health workers have been established. “We emphasize following health guidelines, providing accurate information, and combating misinformation,” he noted.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Grace Magembe commended the experts’ efforts during her visit to Biharamulo, stressing the importance of public education for prevention and urging health workers to use protective gear.

During her January 25 visit to the Mobile Community Health Laboratory in Misenyi, Dr. Magembe acknowledged the support of health sector partners and outlined the government’s Marburg response plan. Priority areas include research, laboratories, sanitation facilities, transportation, treatment, and border control. 

Speaking on behalf of the WHO, Dr. Dick Chamla lauded Tanzania’s proactive use of local resources. Partners like WHO, MDH, MSF, CDC Tanzania, UNICEF, and the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation have joined the response. Dr. Magembe affirmed, “Our goal is to eradicate this disease entirely. Let’s collaborate, and we assure you that resources will be used effectively.”

On January 26, she inspected the Kagera Regional Referral Hospital, expressing satisfaction with specialist care improvements that have eased the burden on local residents.

Read more:

As Tanzania grapples with Marburg Virus outbreak: What you need to know https://rcc.eac.int/node/153 

More photos: https://x.com/wizara_afyatz/status/1883489296700584205 and  https://x.com/wizara_afyatz/status/1883568102761288149

A team of experts, led by Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, Director of Preventive Services in Tanzania's Ministry of Health, along with Biharamulo District Commissioner Hon. Advera John Bulimba, health professionals from Kagera Region, and other health sector stakeholders, is conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public about Marburg Virus Disease (MVD).

Following the declaration of an MVD outbreak in Tanzania, with one confirmed case and 25 suspected cases reported in Biharamulo, Kagera Region, the team has actively engaged the community. As part of the campaign, they held a meeting with traders at Biharamulo Market to discuss effective measures for preventing Marburg virus infections.

According to Dr. Kapologwe, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with health sector stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to educate and mobilize communities on preventing the dangerous disease. The efforts include the distribution of awareness leaflets and posters with precautionary messages.

Dr. Kapologwe highlighted that the campaign aligns with the directives of Tanzania’s President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has stressed the importance of taking all necessary precautions to safeguard public health.

During the campaign, Dr. Kapologwe explained that the Marburg virus spreads rapidly through body fluids of infected individuals, such as blood, vomit, saliva, urine, faeces, or sweat. Other sources of transmission include touching items used by Marburg patients or consuming carcasses of infected animals such as bats, monkeys, and apes.

"The key symptoms of Marburg include high fever, severe headaches, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea (sometimes with blood), and bleeding from various parts of the body," he said.

Dr. Kapologwe urged citizens to protect themselves by adhering to health guidelines, including:

1. Washing hands regularly with running water and soap.

2. Avoiding contact with body fluids of individuals showing symptoms of Marburg.

3. Refraining from handshakes, hugs, or kisses.

4. Avoiding contact with or consumption of carcasses of animals like bats, monkeys, and apes.

5. Not touching or washing the bodies of deceased persons who exhibited Marburg symptoms and ensuring proper health-compliant burial practices.

He also encouraged the public to report any suspected cases to health authorities by calling the toll-free number 199.

Hon. Bulimba commended the swift actions taken by the government and stakeholders in providing treatment, preventive services, and health education in Biharamulo. She urged residents to adhere to health regulations to prevent the spread of diseases.

These measures aim to ensure the safety of Tanzanians and prevent further transmission of the deadly Marburg virus. See photos here  and here .

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus convened with over 200 health, development, and diplomatic partners in Tanzania to discuss the government’s intensified efforts to combat the Marburg virus disease outbreak in the country's northwest.

Dr. Tedros highlighted President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s strong commitment to health and the comprehensive emergency response underway. He called on all partners to unite in supporting the Tanzanian government to swiftly bring the outbreak under control.

"In times of challenges, we must come together to protect and promote people's health and wellbeing," he emphasized.

See the WHO Director-General's posts on X and photos here  and here . 

The article "Emergence of Marburg Virus Disease in West Africa amid COVID-19 and Ebola: Efforts, Challenges, and Recommendations to Prevent the Next Public Health Crisis" provides a comprehensive analysis of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), a severe hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus, an RNA virus from the Filoviridae family. The primary natural reservoir is the African fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus), facilitating transmission through animal-to-animal, animal-to-human, and human-to-human interactions. Historically, MVD outbreaks have been highly fatal, with mortality rates reaching up to 90%, predominantly affecting African regions.

The article delves into the origins and transmission mechanisms of the Marburg virus, highlighting its capacity for rapid spread due to various transmission routes. It emphasizes the challenges posed by MVD, especially during concurrent public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and Ebola outbreaks. The authors discuss the compounded difficulties in managing MVD amid these overlapping health emergencies, noting that strained healthcare systems and resource limitations can exacerbate the impact of such outbreaks.

In response to the recent MVD outbreak in West Africa, the article underscores the importance of implementing effective public health strategies. Recommendations include enhancing surveillance systems, improving diagnostic capabilities, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure to better prepare for and respond to future epidemics. The authors advocate for increased awareness and proactive measures to prevent MVD from triggering further public health crises, especially in regions already burdened by diseases like COVID-19 and Ebola.

By providing this analysis, the article aims to draw attention to MVD and encourage the global health community to take necessary actions to prevent potential epidemics caused by this deadly virus.

Marburg virus disease is a severe, often fatal illness. It begins with flu-like symptoms but can escalate to severe vomiting, bleeding, and neurological complications. The disease is typically transmitted from bats or primates to humans and can then spread person-to-person, fueling outbreaks. Marburg virus is a type of hemorrhagic fever, caused by a virus in the same family as Ebola, known for damaging blood vessels and causing internal and external bleeding.

Tanzania is currently battling a new outbreak MVD and has reported one confirmed case and 25 suspected cases, following laboratory tests that identified the infection, raising alarm across the region. The outbreak underscores the critical need for vigilance, early detection, and robust containment measures to prevent further escalation.

How Common is Marburg Virus Disease?
While rare, Marburg virus disease outbreaks can range from a handful of cases to hundreds, making its containment critical.

Other recent and notable outbreaks
Equatorial Guinea (2023): 16 confirmed cases, 12 deaths.
Tanzania (2023): 8 confirmed cases, 5 deaths.

Historical outbreaks
Uganda (2012): 15 cases, 4 deaths.
Angola (2004–2005): 252 cases, 227 deaths.
DRC (1998–2000): 154 cases, 128 deaths (primarily in mine workers).
Germany & Yugoslavia (1967): 31 cases, 7 deaths (linked to handling African green monkeys).

What are the symptoms?
MVD symptoms typically appear in two phases:
Initial Phase (5–7 days):
Fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, rash, and cough.

Advanced phase:
Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, weight loss, and bleeding from the nose, mouth, or eyes.

Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms arise.

What causes MVD?
The disease is caused by two viruses: Marburg virus (MARV), Ravn virus (RAVV)
Both belong to the Filoviridae family, the same as the Ebola virus.

How does the virus spread?
MVD spreads through contact with:
Infected body fluids like blood, saliva, urine, or semen.
Contaminated surfaces.
Bats or primates carrying the virus.

Risk factors include working with animals, visiting caves where fruit bats live, or caring for infected individuals.

Diagnosis and treatment
A blood test confirms the disease. Early diagnosis is critical as symptoms often mimic malaria or typhoid. Always inform healthcare providers of recent travel or exposure to outbreak areas.

Is there a cure?
Currently, no specific cure exists. Treatment focuses on supportive care, including:
Oxygen therapy.
Intravenous fluids.
Managing complications like dehydration or pain.

How can Marburg virus be prevented?
Use protective equipment (masks, gloves, goggles) when caring for patients.
Avoid contact with infected body fluids or contaminated items.
Practice safe burials: Ensure safe handling of the deceased to prevent exposure to bodily fluids.
No handshaking
Refrain from handling bush meat, bats, or primates.
Monitor for symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure and seek care immediately if symptoms develop.

If you suspect infection:
If you think you may have been exposed or experience symptoms:
Seek medical care immediately: Early treatment can save lives.
Isolate yourself: Avoid contact with others to prevent spread.
Notify local health authorities: Visit the nearest healthcare facility for evaluation.

Outlook and prognosis
What should you expect with MVD?
Patients require isolation and close monitoring. Survivors may face long-term complications, including memory issues, muscle pain, or hair loss. The virus can persist in bodily fluids like semen, so continued precautions are necessary.

Is survival possible?
With an average fatality rate of 80%, early medical care is crucial. Mortality rates vary significantly between outbreaks (24%–90%).

When to see a Doctor
If you’ve travelled to an outbreak area or had possible exposure, monitor for symptoms for 21 days. Report any symptoms immediately to healthcare providers and disclose potential exposure to facilitate early diagnosis and care.

Read more:

Tanzania confirms Marburg Virus outbreak: https://rcc.eac.int/node/150 

Marburg Key Facts:   Transmission, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment 

Most Marburg virus disease (Marburg) outbreaks have occurred in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, the virus has spread to across the world through infected travelers or accidental laboratory infections. The disease is named for the German city where scientists became ill with the disease's first known cases in 1967, while handling monkeys imported from Africa. Read here as the US Centers for Disease Control tracks the history of the disease.  

The Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda in late 2024 underscores the importance of community-driven and adaptive public health strategies. A detailed brief highlights key lessons, including the vital role of leveraging decentralized systems for effective community engagement, addressing local perceptions through qualitative assessments, and safeguarding healthcare workers with enhanced protective measures. With vaccination efforts targeting high-risk groups, Rwanda’s approach offers valuable insights into managing outbreaks while respecting cultural practices and mitigating misinformation.

Community Engagement: Leveraging Rwanda's decentralized administrative system, which includes elected village leaders and Community Health Workers, is vital for disseminating public health messages. Engaging trusted local channels such as religious leaders, women's and youth organizations, and trade cooperatives can enhance the adoption of preventive measures. Utilizing media platforms like radio and social media, along with community meetings, further strengthens outreach efforts. Involving community members in adapting Safe and Dignified Burial protocols ensures cultural practices are respected.

Rapid Qualitative Assessments: Understanding community perceptions, behaviors, and concerns is crucial. Conducting assessments to explore fears related to quarantine, healthcare facilities, and vaccine safety, as well as addressing rumors or misinformation, allows for culturally sensitive adjustments in risk communication and intervention strategies.

Healthcare Worker Protection: With over 70% of reported cases among health workers, enhancing protection and rigorous infection prevention control practices are imperative. Importing personal protective equipment (PPE) to support healthcare workers and volunteers is essential to mitigate nosocomial transmission risks.

Vaccination Efforts: Prioritizing healthcare workers in high-risk districts for vaccination is a key strategy. The ChAd3-MARV vaccine, though still in its trial phase with uncertain protective effects, has been secured with 700 doses, and vaccinations have commenced for health workers.

Read more here from Key considerations: Outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Rwanda, October 2024 by Social Science in Humanitarian Action Platform. 

Mobilizes international support for containment efforts

Tanzania's President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus in the Kagera Region of northwestern Tanzania on January 20, 2025. The country has reported one confirmed case and 25 suspected cases, following laboratory tests that identified the infection. This outbreak marks Tanzania’s second encounter with the virus, following a previous outbreak in Bukoba District of Kagera in March 2023, which resulted in nine cases and six deaths.

The Marburg virus is a highly infectious disease, with a fatality rate as high as 88%. It is from the same family as the Ebola virus and is transmitted to humans primarily through fruit bats and monkeys. Victims present with symptoms typical of viral hemorrhagic fevers, including fever, headache, back pain, muscle weakness, diarrhea, vomiting blood, and external bleeding.

In response to the outbreak, the government initiated a rapid response plan, dispatching a team of public health experts to the area to monitor suspected cases and contain the spread. While 25 suspected cases have tested negative for the virus, the government has increased surveillance and response efforts to prevent further transmission.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has pledged $3 million from its contingency fund to support Tanzania’s efforts in containing the outbreak. WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasized the importance of continued investment in response capacity, which has been bolstered by Tanzania’s experience in managing the 2023 outbreak.

Simultaneously, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is mobilizing immediate support, committing $2 million to help Tanzania manage the outbreak. A team of twelve public health experts, including epidemiologists, risk communication specialists, and infection prevention and control (IPC) experts, will be deployed to the region in the next 24 hours. Africa CDC’s support also includes the provision of diagnostic kits, genomic sequencing reagents, and technical assistance to enhance case detection and improve treatment protocols.

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, expressed solidarity with Tanzania, highlighting the importance of swift action and coordinated efforts. “Building on Tanzania’s response capabilities from the 2023 outbreak, we are confident that, with our combined support, this outbreak will be controlled quickly,” he said.

This coordinated response effort, involving both international organizations like WHO and Africa CDC, as well as the Tanzanian government, underscores the urgent need for collaboration in managing the spread of the Marburg virus in the region. 

For more information:

Tanzania President Press Conference on MVD

Marburg Key Facts, Transmission, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Tanzania Travel Advisory

MoH Press Release on Marburg

New undiagnosed disease in DR Congo: urgent action needed - Lancet

The outbreak of an undiagnosed disease in DR Congo, reported by WHO on Dec 8, 2024,1 is a pressing global health concern that demands swift and coordinated action. As of Dec 5, 406 cases and 31 deaths have been reported in the Panzi health zone in Kwango province, with influenza-like symptoms and anaemia. Most affected individuals are children aged younger than 5 years, many of whom are severely malnourished.

The remoteness of the region and poor infrastructure complicate the identification of the pathogen, with suspicions that multiple diseases could be contributing to these cases. Furthermore, the outbreak has the potential to transcend regional boundaries, particularly as DR Congo shares porous borders with Angola, where provinces such as Uige are vulnerable to cross-border transmission. Mobility between these regions could facilitate the spread of the disease to neighbouring African countries, raising the potential for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

With disease samples dispatched to Kinshasa for laboratory testing to determine the pathogen's origin, we are in a crucial window to prevent its further spread. Today, the approach must be different. The disease's unknown nature warrants containment measures at both the local and international levels. These measures should include the immediate restriction of cross-border movement in affected regions, enhanced disease surveillance, and the rapid mobilisation of health-care resources to DR Congo and neighbouring countries. Additionally, the international community must recognise that this is not solely an African challenge; it is a global health threat. Comprehensive funding and logistical support should be prioritised, enabling rapid diagnostic efforts, contact tracing, and the provision of personal protective equipment to front-line workers.

The risk of spillover into neighbouring countries underscores the urgency for Angola and other countries in the region to heighten preparedness measures. These measures should include deploying rapid response teams, establishing quarantine protocols, and intensifying public health communication to mitigate panic and misinformation. In this interconnected world, a delayed or fragmented response could allow this disease to evolve into a global health crisis. By learning from our recent past, we can change the trajectory of this outbreak and safeguard lives across continents. The experience with COVID-19 has shown that delays in responding to outbreaks can have catastrophic consequences. Therefore, it is imperative that the global community acts decisively to contain this undiagnosed disease in DR Congo, protecting not only African populations, but also global public health.

Reference

Undiagnosed disease—Democratic Republic of the Congo

https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2024-DON546