Ethiopia has confirmed its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease after reporting nine cases in the southern Omo region, near the border with South Sudan. The announcement was made on Friday, November 14, 2025, following initial investigations into “suspected cases of viral haemorrhagic fever” by Ethiopian health authorities.
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Ethiopia’s rapid and transparent response, describing it as a strong demonstration of the country’s commitment to controlling the outbreak. “This fast action demonstrates the seriousness of the country’s commitment to bringing the outbreak under control quickly,” he wrote on social media.
Marburg virus belongs to the same family as Ebola Filoviridae and is considered even more severe. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is a rare but deadly hemorrhagic fever. It originates in Egyptian fruit bats and can spread between humans through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects, such as clothing or bedding. Symptoms include fever, rash, and severe bleeding. There is no specific treatment or vaccine, and care is limited to supportive measures like rest and hydration.
The outbreak has raised concerns due to the proximity of South Sudan, which has a fragile health system, as noted by Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya. No other African countries have reported Marburg cases in recent weeks.
The WHO is actively supporting Ethiopia to contain the outbreak, provide care for infected patients, and mitigate the risk of cross-border transmission. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has initiated community-wide screenings, public awareness campaigns, and contact tracing efforts. Infected individuals have been isolated and are receiving treatment, and authorities are urging the public to remain calm, follow official health guidance, and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
