Marburg Virus Outbreak In Ethiopia: 3 Dead, 17 Infected With Ebola Cousin

Ethiopia reports its first Marburg virus outbreak with 3 deaths and 17 infections, raising concerns over this deadly Ebola-related virus.

Ethiopia announced three deaths on Monday due to the Marburg Virus, which was discovered in a neighbouring territory of South Sudan. Health Minister Mekdes Daba said Ethiopia's government, which declared a Marburg outbreak on Friday, had tested 17 probable cases in the country's south. The outbreak has been recorded in the Omo region.

Marburg Virus Hits Ethiopia: 3 Dead, 17 Infected

The minister stated that there were no active instances, but the government was taking precautionary steps. A team from the World Health Organisation and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has been dispatched to assist with testing and outbreak management.

South Sudan's health ministry issued public health advice on Sunday, advising inhabitants of four counties to wash their hands regularly and avoid contact with bodily fluids in order to prevent the virus from spreading. Last week, Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya expressed concern about the outbreak, citing South Sudan's "fragile health system."

Marburg Outbreaks in Other Regions

In the past, the Marburg virus outbreaks in Tanzania killed ten people in January and were declared over in March. Rwanda successfully contained its first known Marburg outbreak in December 2024, which resulted in 15 deaths. Last year, Rwanda tested an experimental vaccination created by the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute.

What is the Marburg Virus?

Marburg virus is in the same family as Ebola and might make people seriously sick.It is transmitted by direct contact with the blood, body fluids or tissues of the infected individuals or animals such as bats, monkeys.The virus may also be transferred within the healthcare environments provided that proper precautions are not taken.

Warning Signs of Marburg Virus

The early symptoms are important to save lives. The five red flags to be observed are:

Sudden Fever and Chills

A sudden high fever, which is usually accompanied by chills, is one of the initial symptoms of infection. This may manifest between 2 in 21 days of exposure to the virus.

Severe Headache and Pain in the Muscles

The infected individuals are likely to develop headaches, pains in the joints and aches in the muscles and may find it hard to perform daily tasks.

Weakness and Fatigue

Patients are highly fatigued and weak as the virus advances. This can build up very fast and this may disrupt normal functioning.

Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea are common symptoms of digestion. These symptoms may cause a dehydration state, which aggravates the situation of the patient.

Unexplained Bleeding

Hemorrhagic fever is also characterised by bleeding of the gums, nose, urine, and stool. The symptom is bruising under the skin without any injury and should seek urgent medical attention.

Consult a doctor immediately if you detect any of the symptoms of Marburg Virus. Stay alert, stay healthy.