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Tanzania has reported a case of Marburg virus disease in the northwestern region of Kagera, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The confirmed case followed investigations and laboratory testing of suspected cases. As of January 20, 2025, 25 suspected cases have been reported, but all tested negative, as confirmed by the government.
This outbreak comes nearly two years after the first Marburg outbreak in March 2023, which saw nine cases and six deaths. President Suluhu Samia Hassan expressed confidence in Tanzania’s ability to contain the outbreak, noting past successes in managing similar situations.
WHO Secretary-General Tedros Ghebreyesus, currently in Tanzania, announced the release of $3 million from the WHO’s Contingency Fund for Emergencies to aid in controlling the Marburg outbreak. This is in addition to $50,000 previously provided for initial investigations. During his visit, Ghebreyesus praised Tanzania for strengthening its health system and building new capacities, including training health workers.
The WHO chief highlighted that Tanzania’s response has already included improved case detection, the establishment of treatment centers, a mobile laboratory for testing, and the deployment of national response teams. Marburg virus is spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or fruit bats.
The Marburg outbreak was first reported in Rwanda on September 27, 2024, resulting in 15 deaths before being declared over in December. While there are no approved treatments or vaccines for Marburg, public health measures can effectively control outbreaks.
Ghebreyesus advised against imposing travel or trade restrictions on Tanzania, emphasizing the country’s strong response capabilities and the low global risk. He called for collaboration and commitment to protect public health in Tanzania and the surrounding region.
