Written By: Muskan Gupta | Published : November 27, 2025 5:18 PM IST
The death toll from an Ethiopian Marburg virus epidemic has grown to six, the state-run news agency said on Wednesday. Ethiopia first confirmed the outbreak on November 14, and three deaths were recorded three days later. "Out of the 11 people in whom the virus was detected, six have died, and five are receiving medical treatment," Ethiopian Press Agency said on its Facebook page, citing a statement from the health ministry.
According to the ministry, 349 people suspected of having contact with sick individuals were segregated, with 119 of them freed once their surveillance was completed. Marburg, a virus in the same family as Ebola, causes severe headaches and haemorrhaging. Previous outbreaks in Africa have resulted in fatality rates of 80% or more, usually within eight to nine days of the commencement of symptoms.
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.
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 environment, provided that proper precautions are not taken.
The early symptoms are important to save lives. The five red flags to be observed are:
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.
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.
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 are common symptoms of digestion. These symptoms may cause a dehydration state, which aggravates the situation of the patient.
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.
According to the WHO, as of now, there is no vaccine or anti-viral for treating the Marburg Virus. However, early intensive supportive care that includes hydration and treatment of specific symptoms can help improve survival.
The best way to prevent the Marburg virus is by following these precautionary measures:
Consult a doctor immediately if you detect any of the symptoms of Marburg Virus. Stay alert, stay healthy.
