Sunday, November 16, 2025 -Ethiopia has confirmed its first outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus, with nine cases reported in the southern Omo region near the border with South Sudan.
The outbreak was verified by laboratory testing, and genetic analysis shows it matches a strain seen in previous East African outbreaks.
Health authorities in Ethiopia have moved swiftly to contain the spread. They have launched community screening, isolated confirmed cases, and begun contact tracing.
Support is being provided by the World Health Organization and the Africa CDC, including sending technical teams and critical medical supplies such as personal protective equipment and isolation tents.
Marburg virus disease causes a severe hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola. It spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and often bleeding. There is no approved vaccine or specific treatment, and care is focused on supportive measures such as fluid replacement.
Health officials are especially concerned because of the outbreak’s proximity to South Sudan, which has a fragile healthcare system. Authorities are urging calm, encouraging people to follow health guidance, and advising anyone who develops symptoms to seek medical care.
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