Ethiopia – November 14, 2025 – Ethiopia has confirmed its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease, with nine cases reported in the country’s southern Omo region, which borders the conflict-affected South Sudan. Health authorities are working urgently to contain the virus and prevent its spread.

Rapid Response from Ethiopian Health Authorities

The World Health Organization (WHO) praised Ethiopia for its swift and transparent response. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended the Ethiopian Health Ministry for its “fast action,” highlighting the country’s commitment to controlling the outbreak quickly.

“This fast action demonstrates the seriousness of the country’s commitment to bringing the outbreak under control quickly,” Tedros stated on social media.

The confirmation follows preliminary investigations into suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever, which prompted immediate surveillance and containment measures.

What is the Marburg Virus?

Marburg virus is a member of the Filoviridae family, closely related to Ebola, and is considered more severe than Ebola in some cases. The virus originates in Egyptian fruit bats and can spread to humans through direct contact with bodily fluids or objects contaminated with these fluids, such as clothing or bedding.

Symptoms of Marburg virus infection include:

• High fever
• Rash
• Severe bleeding
• Vomiting and diarrhea

Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), treatment is limited to supportive care, including hydration, rest, and symptom management.

Geographic and Regional Concerns

The outbreak was reported in Ethiopia’s Omo region, which lies near South Sudan, a country with a fragile healthcare system. Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya warned that the proximity to South Sudan raises concerns about cross-border transmission, emphasizing the importance of immediate containment measures.

To mitigate the risk of further spread, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health has:

• Conducted community-wide screenings
• Isolated confirmed cases and provided medical care
• Launched awareness campaigns to educate the public
• Initiated contact tracing to identify individuals exposed to suspected cases

International Support and Preparedness

The WHO is actively supporting Ethiopia by providing technical guidance, medical supplies, and logistical support to treat infected individuals and prevent cross-border spread. Tedros highlighted the urgency of coordinated international efforts to contain the outbreak.

Health authorities have urged the public to remain calm, follow instructions, and seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear.

“People should not panic but stay vigilant, follow instructions from health authorities, and report any signs of illness,” the Ethiopian Ministry of Health stated.

With Marburg virus outbreaks being rare but highly lethal, authorities stress the importance of rapid containment to prevent a wider health crisis in the region.