Tanzania has confirmed a Marburg virus outbreak, with one case in Kagera, following initial denials from health officials. Nine suspected cases and eight deaths were recorded by WHO, prompting a rapid response team to address the situation. The Marburg virus is highly infectious, with a 50% mortality rate. Efforts are ongoing to test and monitor contacts, while WHO assesses the global risk as low.
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially confirmed the outbreak of the Marburg virus, which bears similarity to Ebola, a week after initial assertions from the health minister denied the existence of any cases. During a press conference, the President reported one confirmed case in Kagera, a northwestern region of the country, stating confidence in overcoming the situation, reminiscent of a previous outbreak two years ago.
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a suspected outbreak on January 14, subsequently identifying nine suspected cases along with eight deaths in Kagera over five days. Health Minister Jenista Mhagama initially reported that subsequent analyses rendered all suspected cases negative for Marburg virus. However, following President Samia’s press briefing with WHO representatives, efforts have intensified, including deployment of a rapid response team to monitor suspected cases.
Marburg virus, known for its high transmissibility, presents symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and can lead to death through severe hemorrhaging. According to WHO data, the average fatality rate is around 50% amongst the infected populace. Currently, in addition to the confirmed case, authorities have tested samples from 24 other individuals reported as suspected cases, all of which returned negative results.
The origin of the eight deaths previously reported remains unclear. Tanzania had already experienced its first Marburg outbreak in March 2023, in Bukoba district, resulting in six fatalities and lasting nearly two months. WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, characterized the global risk from this outbreak as “low,” emphasizing the potential for rapid containment, despite the absence of approved treatments or vaccines.
Further, the Africa CDC announced that over 300 contacts have been identified for additional testing, including 56 health workers and 16 individuals known to have had direct contact with those suspected of the virus. The International Health Regulations mandate countries report any public health events that could potentially spread across borders, particularly given Kagera’s status as a transit hub.
Notably, neighboring Rwanda recently concluded an outbreak that had affected 66 individuals, resulting in 15 deaths. The Marburg virus first transfers to humans from fruit bats and is then transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals. Although there are currently no definitive treatments or vaccines available, clinical trials are ongoing.
The Marburg virus, an infectious and often lethal disease, is in the same family as the Ebola virus. It was first identified in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany. The transmission of the virus typically occurs through contact with the bodily fluids of infected humans or animals, primarily from fruit bats, which are considered natural hosts of the virus. Due to its high mortality rate and significant public health implications, monitoring and controlling outbreaks is a priority for health organizations worldwide.
In summary, Tanzania’s confirmation of a Marburg virus outbreak emphasizes the need for vigilant public health responses to prevent further spread. The government’s commitment to monitoring and addressing suspected cases is crucial in managing this situation effectively. As global health agencies support Tanzania, the emphasis on collaboration and timely reporting remains vital in combating the virus and safeguarding public health.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
