Tanzania confirms Marburg Virus outbreak
FILE PHOTO: The hands of a patient with skin rashes caused by the mpox virus are pictured at the treatment center of Vijana Hospital in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo August 30, 2024. REUTERS/Justin Makangara/File Photo
Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has officially confirmed an outbreak of the Marburg virus in the East African nation.
Speaking at a press conference in Dodoma on Monday, the president revealed that laboratory tests have identified one confirmed case of the deadly virus.
“Laboratory tests conducted at Kabaile Mobile Laboratory in Kagera and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam, identified one patient as being infected by Marburg virus,” President Hassan announced.
The event was attended by World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, underscoring the significance of the development.
Marburg virus, a highly infectious disease, is often associated with severe hemorrhagic fever and poses a significant public health challenge.
This case marks a critical moment for Tanzania‘s healthcare system as it works to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Health authorities, in collaboration with international partners including WHO, are expected to intensify surveillance, response measures, and public awareness campaigns in affected regions to address the situation effectively.
