The outbreak of the Marburg virus in Ethiopia has escalated, with the country's Ministry of Health reporting five fatalities as of November 24. The situation is concerning, given that the case fatality rate has reached 50%. This alarming statistic follows the identification of two new infections among seven suspected cases, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to ten. In response to this unprecedented health crisis, Ethiopian health authorities have initiated a coordinated response to manage the outbreak effectively. So far, laboratory investigations have been conducted on 53 suspected cases across the nation.
The Marburg virus outbreak was first confirmed in Jinka town, located in southern Ethiopia, on November 14. This confirmation followed laboratory testing of samples from individuals displaying symptoms consistent with viral hemorrhagic fever. Health officials are actively monitoring and treating five individuals who are currently hospitalized due to the virus.
To prevent possible cross-border transmission of the virus, particularly to neighboring countries such as South Sudan and Kenya, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is mobilizing resources and assistance. Emphasis has been placed on boosting regional preparedness, enhancing information sharing, and strengthening surveillance mechanisms to combat the potential spread of this highly infectious virus.
The Marburg virus is known for its ability to cause hemorrhagic fever, presenting symptoms like high fever and severe headaches, which typically manifest within a week after exposure. As part of the filovirus family, which includes Ebola, the Marburg virus carries a significant threat, with a fatality ratio that can reach up to 88% according to the World Health Organization. However, timely and appropriate medical intervention can lower this fatality rate.
Historically, the Marburg virus was first recognized in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia, which were linked to laboratory work involving African green monkeys from Uganda. Since then, various outbreaks have been recorded across several African nations, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda, among others. Ethiopia's current situation underscores the critical need for rapid response and international collaboration to address emerging infectious diseases and safeguard public health.