Ethiopia has reported its first-ever cases of Marburg virus disease. The Health Ministry officially declared the outbreak after nine people tested positive in the southern Omo region. The area borders South Sudan, where the health system is weak, increasing the risk, according to officials.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), praised the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders for their “quick and transparent response.” On social media, he stated, “Taking prompt action demonstrates the government’s commitment to bringing the outbreak under control swiftly.”

The outbreak confirmation came a day after WHO reported suspected cases of “viral hemorrhagic fever” in Ethiopia and noted ongoing investigations. The Marburg virus belongs to the same family as Ebola (Filoviridae) and is considered highly severe. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes it as a “rare but extremely dangerous” disease.

The virus is believed to originate from the Egyptian fruit bat and can be transmitted through contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of infected individuals or through contaminated materials such as clothing or bedding.

Symptoms include high fever, skin rashes, and severe bleeding. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus; care mainly involves supportive measures such as rest, hydration, and symptom management.

Dr. Jean Kasey, Director of the U.S. CDC for Africa, highlighted that the proximity to South Sudan increases the risk and requires careful monitoring.

WHO is working with Ethiopia on outbreak control, treatment of infected patients, and preventing the virus from spreading to border areas. According to the Ministry of Health, infected individuals are being treated in isolation, and contact tracing, community-level screening, and awareness programs have been initiated.

The Ministry has urged the public not to panic, to follow health guidelines, and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.