Kenya on High Alert: Deadly Marburg Virus Claims 8 in Tanzania
Eight deaths have been reported in Tanzania’s Kagera region following a suspected outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD). Despite this, health officials emphasize that there are no current restrictions on travel or trade with the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a high alert for neighboring nations, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Mozambique.
“Surveillance and response efforts must be strengthened at key border points. Neighboring countries should work together to standardize reporting processes,” WHO stated.
WHO Urges Heightened Preparedness
WHO has advised nearby nations to boost readiness measures for early case detection, isolation, and treatment. According to reports, six individuals in Kagera showed symptoms consistent with MVD, leading to five fatalities as of January 10, 2025.
Symptoms included headaches, high fever, back pain, diarrhea, vomiting blood, body weakness, and, in later stages, bleeding from body openings.
By the following day, nine additional suspected cases, including eight fatalities, were identified in the Biharamulo and Muleba districts, reflecting a case fatality rate of 89%. Test samples from two patients are under review at Tanzania’s National Public Health Laboratory, and identified contacts are under observation.
Focus on Containment and Prevention
WHO stresses the need for well-equipped isolation and treatment facilities to ensure patient care while curbing the virus’s spread. Safe burial protocols are also vital to minimize community exposure.
Currently, there are no approved vaccines or treatments for MVD, though several candidates are being tested during ongoing outbreaks.
To prevent human-to-human transmission, residents are urged to avoid contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids. Suspected or confirmed cases should seek care at designated treatment centers, while community members are advised against handling symptomatic patients or the bodies of the deceased.
To reduce bat-to-human transmission, WHO recommends limiting time spent in caves or mines with fruit bat colonies. Protective gear, such as gloves, clothing, and masks, should be used in these environments, and all animal products must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Kenya on High Alert: Deadly Marburg Virus Claims 8 in Tanzania
