Tanzania: Suspected Outbreak of Marburg Disease Kills 8

A suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Tanzania's Kagera region has resulted in eight fatalities among nine reported cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In a statement on Tuesday, the WHO reported receiving information on January 10 about suspected cases in the Kagera region. Symptoms included headache, high fever, back pain, diarrhea, vomiting blood, body weakness, and external bleeding. Samples from two patients have been collected and are being tested to confirm the outbreak, the WHO said, adding that contacts, including healthcare workers, have been i

A suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Tanzania's Kagera region has resulted in eight fatalities among nine reported cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In a statement on Tuesday, the WHO reported receiving information on January 10 about suspected cases in the Kagera region. Symptoms included headache, high fever, back pain, diarrhea, vomiting blood, body weakness, and external bleeding. Samples from two patients have been collected and are being tested to confirm the outbreak, the WHO said, adding that contacts, including healthcare workers, have been identified and are under follow-up. "We are aware of nine cases so far, including eight deaths. We anticipate further cases in the coming days as disease surveillance improves," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He added that the WHO is offering its full support to the Tanzanian government and affected communities. The WHO also advised neighboring countries to remain vigilant and prepared to manage potential cases, although no travel or trade restrictions with Tanzania have been recommended at this time. In response, Tanzanian health authorities have deployed rapid response teams to the affected areas to investigate, implement control measures, and enhance surveillance. The WHO is providing support to ensure effective containment of the outbreak.