Suspected Marburg Virus Outbreak Claims 8 Lives in Tanzania

A suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Tanzania’s Kagera region has claimed the lives of eight individuals and infected nine others, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreak, confirmed on January 10, 2025, follows just weeks after neighbouring Rwanda officially declared its Marburg outbreak over.

MVD, which is closely related to Ebola, is a severe hemorrhagic fever with an average fatality rate of 50%, though it can range from 24% to 88% depending on the outbreak. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with Rousettus aegyptiacus fruit bats, which are considered its natural hosts. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated materials.

The outbreak in Tanzania is centered in the Kagera region, which borders Rwanda, raising concerns about the potential for cross-border transmission. Initial reports indicate that patients have exhibited symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle weakness, back pain, vomiting blood, and severe external bleeding. Authorities are actively testing samples from two patients at the national laboratory and are tracing contacts, including healthcare workers, to prevent further spread.

Kagera is no stranger to the Marburg virus. In March 2023, the region experienced a similar outbreak that lasted nearly two months and claimed the lives of six individuals. This recurrence underscores the persistent threat of Marburg in East Africa.

The recent outbreak in Tanzania comes just weeks after Rwanda declared its own Marburg outbreak over on December 20, 2024. Rwanda’s outbreak infected 66 people and led to 15 deaths. Given the geographical proximity of the Kagera region to Rwanda, there are concerns about potential cross-border transmission, prompting urgent containment efforts from both Tanzanian and regional health authorities.

At present, there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Marburg virus, although several are under development. The most effective treatment remains early supportive care, which includes rehydration and symptomatic treatment. With prompt medical attention, survival rates can be improved.

The WHO is working closely with Tanzanian health authorities to confirm the outbreak and implement strategies to control its spread. The organization has emphasized the importance of coordinated regional efforts, especially in areas with limited health infrastructure, to contain outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Preventive measures remain crucial in the fight against Marburg. The public is urged to avoid contact with bats, limit exposure to bodily fluids of infected individuals, and ensure proper use of protective gear in healthcare settings. Those experiencing persistent symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle pain, are advised to seek medical attention immediately, as early diagnosis and care are critical in improving outcomes.

The ongoing situation in Tanzania highlights the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness across the region to prevent further spread of the Marburg virus and other infectious diseases.