What you need to know about Marburg virus

Initial reports, dating back to 11 January, indicated suspected cases and fatalities in the Biharamulo and Muleba districts, with healthcare workers among those affected. After initial denials from the Tanzanian government, confirmation of one positive case, and 25 suspected cases, on 20 January verified the outbreak. Cases are concentrated in two districts, but further spread may occur due to delayed detection and isolation. Authorities have deployed rapid response teams to assist with testing, surveillance, and contact tracing.

The Tanzanian government announced that enhanced public health measures would be implemented to contain the outbreak on 21 January; measures include the introduction of an online Traveller's Surveillance Form for all departing travellers from the Kagera region, and body temperature checks at all ports of entry, including airports. The advisory is liable to change and the introduction of stricter travel restrictions cannot be ruled out, particularly if the outbreak worsens.

Zoonotic reservoirs are endemic to the area. The last outbreak in Kagera occurred in 2023, lasting two months and resulting in nine cases and six fatalities (67% fatality rate).

What is Marburg?

Marburg virus disease is a severe, highly infectious viral haemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola. The virus has a high mortality rate – estimated to exceed 50% - and poses a significant public health risk due to the lack of a specific treatment or vaccine.

The virus is transmitted from fruit bats (Rousettus species) to humans. Once a person is infected, Marburg spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, or diarrhoea, making caregivers, family members, and healthcare workers particularly vulnerable. The virus is not airborne but can also spread through contaminated surfaces. Even after death, the virus remains contagious, especially during burial.

Symptoms of Marburg virus

Symptoms can appear between 2 and 21 days after exposure. Early signs are often mistaken for flu or malaria, making early detection challenging.

• High fever

• Muscle aches

• Severe headaches

• Chills

• Tiredness

As the illness progresses, symptoms worsen:

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

• Chest pain

• Skin rashes

In severe cases, spontaneous bleeding from the mouth, nose, or other orifices may occur. Many patients also suffer from multiple organ failure, which can be fatal.

Treatment and isolation

There is no specific treatment for Marburg. Care focuses on supportive measures such as IV fluids and organ support. Healthcare workers need to wear full protective equipment, which adds to the challenges of treatment.

Anyone exposed to the virus must be monitored for 21 days, but they are not infectious until symptoms appear. Patients need to be treated in specialised, isolated facilities to prevent further spread.

Prevention

With no vaccine currently available, preventing the spread of Marburg relies on public health measures and community awareness. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Avoid travelling to affected areas.

• Stay away from anyone showing symptoms.

• Seek immediate medical care if you feel unwell.

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and use alcohol-based sanitiser.

• Avoid contact with dead bodies, especially during funeral preparations.

• Follow all public health guidelines, such as temperature screenings.

Monitor @wizara_afyatz on X for updates.