Tanzania Confirms Second Marburg Virus Outbreak with Nine Fatalities

Tanzania has confirmed its second outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus, with at least nine fatalities reported, according to Africa’s health agency on Thursday. This follows an earlier outbreak in 2023, which claimed six lives.

The African Union’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) revealed that 10 cases had been reported, nine of which resulted in deaths.  

Ngashi Ngongo, director of Africa CDC, highlighted the severity of the situation during an online briefing. “The numbers demonstrated the extremely high Marburg case fatality rate,” Ngongo stated.

Marburg virus is a highly infectious disease similar to Ebola, known for its significant fatality rate and devastating effects on affected communities.  

Ngongo reassured the public that efforts were underway to combat the outbreak. “We are doing everything we can with WHO and all the partners,” he said.

He also confirmed that Tanzania’s government had submitted a $10.8 million response plan to address the crisis. The Africa CDC is working closely with the Tanzanian government while awaiting finalization of the proposed measures.  

Tanzania has requested additional assistance from Africa CDC and other international partners to bolster its response to the outbreak. With ongoing efforts and increased support, authorities hope to contain the virus and prevent further loss of life.