Marburg virus, 8 deaths in Tanzania

The Marburg virus, an Ebola-like pathogen with a high fatality rate, has been identified in the Kagera region of Tanzania. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed eight deaths among nine suspected cases, indicating a mortality rate of up to 90% for this virus, which is responsible for hemorrhagic fevers. Despite its high lethal potential, the virus is transmitted through close contact with infected body fluids. Consequently, the risk of global spread is currently considered low. However, the local health systems are under pressure and the international community is on alert to prevent the spread of the epidemic. The WHO has recommended strengthening health surveillance measures, in particular through rapid case identification and isolation of patients. The Kagera region, the epicentre of the current outbreak, functions as a pivotal nexus for trade with neighbouring countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, thereby heightening the potential for cross-border transmission. The geographical distribution of cases across two districts, coupled with the delay in identifying infections, are identified as additional risk factors by the WHO.