Ethiopia Reports Six Deaths Amid Escalating Marburg Virus Outbreak
Ethiopian health officials have disclosed an increase in deaths associated with the nation’s ongoing Marburg virus outbreak, confirming that six people have now lost their lives. The announcement, delivered through the state-owned Ethiopian Press Agency, follows updated figures from the Ministry of Health as authorities intensify efforts to curb transmission.
The country confirmed its first Marburg infections on November 14, marking Ethiopia’s initial encounter with the highly contagious pathogen. Within days of the discovery, three fatalities had already been recorded. Current statistics indicate that 11 individuals have tested positive so far, with five patients still receiving treatment in designated isolation centres equipped to handle viral haemorrhagic fevers.
Health officials report that 349 people who may have been exposed to infected individuals were placed under observation to halt further spread. Of this number, 119 have completed the mandatory monitoring period without showing symptoms and have been discharged. Authorities state that contact-tracing operations remain active in areas where the virus was first identified.
Marburg virus disease—closely related to Ebola—often begins with abrupt fever and intense headaches and can rapidly progress to internal bleeding. The World Health Organization notes that previous outbreaks across Africa have recorded fatality rates ranging from 24% to more than 80%, depending on the variant and the speed of medical care. Most deaths typically occur within seven to nine days after the onset of symptoms.
Ethiopia’s health authorities are now collaborating with regional bodies and global health partners to improve diagnostic capacity, provide protective gear to frontline workers, and educate communities about warning signs and prevention strategies. Specialists emphasise that swift detection, immediate isolation, and clear public communication remain essential to containing the outbreak before it expands further.
Source: Araba Sey
