Marburg Virus: Tanzania Confirms Outbreak of Bleeding Eye Disease, WHO and Health Officials on Alert

On January 20, 2025, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan confirmed an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the northwestern Kagera region, specifically in Biharamulo District. This announcement came after initial denials by the Health Minister, who had stated that all suspected cases had tested negative. ^[1]

After conducting the laboratory test, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that the outbreak existed because one positive case of Marburg virus was diagnosed. The remaining patients suspected of suffering from the virus proved to be negative, and thus, all the 25 cases suspected are placed under close surveillance.

Marburg virus disease is a virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever and belongs to the family of Ebola viruses. It is also known as the “bleeding eye disease” due to its prominent symptom of eye hemorrhaging. Other symptoms include high fever, severe headache, and malaise, often progressing to severe hemorrhagic manifestations within seven days. The virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. ^[1,2]

This marks Tanzania's second Marburg outbreak, with the first occurring in March 2023 in Bukoba District, Kagera Region, resulting in nine cases and six deaths. In response to the current outbreak, WHO is supporting Tanzanian health authorities in bolstering surveillance, testing, treatment, infection prevention, and public awareness campaigns to contain the disease. ^[2]

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus lauded Tanzania’s prompt response and pledged $3 million to support outbreak control efforts. He emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to mitigate the spread of the virus. ^[2]

Currently, there is no licensed treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus disease. ^[1,2] However, early supportive care, including rehydration and symptomatic treatment, significantly improves survival rates. WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to scaling up measures and safeguarding public health. ^[2]

The Tanzanian government has assured both the public and the international community of its determination to effectively deal with the outbreak and prevent any potential cross-border spread. ^[2]

References:

1. WHO. Disease Outbreak News: Marburg virus disease in Tanzania. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON552

2. WHO Statement. Emergency updates on Marburg virus disease. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Pragati Sakhuja/MSM)