Ethiopia has confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus in the southern part of the country. Health officials reported nine cases in and around the town of Jinka, and laboratory tests from the National Reference Laboratory showed that these cases were caused by the Marburg virus.
According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus strain found in Ethiopia is similar to earlier strains detected in East Africa. Health workers in the region are now carrying out more investigations, checking villages, and talking with community leaders to help stop the virus from spreading further.
Marburg virus is a very serious disease related to Ebola. It causes high fever, bleeding, vomiting, and severe weakness. The virus spreads through direct contact with the body fluids of infected people or contaminated surfaces. It can take up to 21 days before symptoms appear. The disease has a high fatality rate, which can range from 25% to 80%, depending on the outbreak and the care available.
The Ethiopian health authorities, together with the World Health Organization (WHO), are now working to control the outbreak. WHO has sent experts, medical supplies, and protective equipment to help health workers in the affected areas. Teams are isolating infected patients, tracing people who had contact with them, and increasing public awareness about the symptoms and how to stay safe.
WHO leaders have praised Ethiopia for responding quickly and sharing information early. This fast action is important because there is no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Marburg virus. Doctors mainly use supportive care, such as giving fluids and treating symptoms, which can help improve survival.
Officials are concerned because the outbreak is happening close to the border with South Sudan, where the health system is fragile. This increases the risk of the virus spreading to neighbouring areas.
The government is urging the public to remain calm but careful. People are advised to report symptoms early, avoid contact with sick individuals, and practice good hygiene. Health officials say strong community cooperation is necessary to stop the spread of the virus.
