17 Jan 2025 • The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a suspected outbreak of the Marburg virus in Tanzania, which has claimed the lives of approximately eight individuals.

Two districts of the Kagera region, located in northwest Tanzania, have reported nine suspected cases. Samples from two patients were tested by Tanzania's national laboratory, confirming the outbreak. The affected patients have been identified and are under close monitoring.

WHO Chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that new cases might emerge due to enhanced disease surveillance. The organization has also warned of potential virus spread to neighboring countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the risk remains high. However, the global risk of the virus is considered relatively low.

This announcement follows a recent Marburg outbreak in Rwanda, where 66 people were infected, and 15 deaths were reported.

The Marburg virus belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus. It is transmitted through direct contact with blood or bodily fluids of the infected individuals. The virus causes hemorrhagic fever, with a high fatality rate of up to 88%.

Source: ALJAZEERA| [Read Full Story] (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/15/who-says-at-least-8-dead-in-suspected-marburg-outbreak-in-tanzania)