Marburg virus disease (MVD)

Marburg virus disease (MVD): A suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Tanzania’s Kagera region has claimed eight lives out of nine reported cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

• About: MVD begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. Muscle aches and pains are a common feature.

o Severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting can begin on the third day.

o Non-itchy rash have been reported in patients between 2 and 7 days after onset of symptoms.

o Fatality rate is 89%, similar to Ebola.

• Affected Areas: Cases reported in Biharamulo and Muleba districts (as of January 11, 2025).

o Similar outbreak in Bukoba district reported 9 cases and 6 deaths in March 2023.

• WHO Risk Classification: Classified as high-risk for Tanzania and neighbouring countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, DRC).

o Proximity to borders and role as a regional transit hub increases cross-border transmission risks.

• Neighbouring Outbreak: Rwanda declared the end of its Marburg outbreak in December 2024 (66 cases, 15 deaths).
• WHO Support: Provided detailed guidance to curb human-to-human and zoonotic transmission.