Tanzanian health authorities declared the end of the country’s second Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
This declaration followed 42 days without any new cases since the death of the last confirmed patient on January 28, 2025.
Minister of Health Jenista Mhagama stated that the 42-day period, ending on March 11, 2025, met the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for declaring an outbreak.
“Scientifically, we have met the criteria for declaring the end of the MVD outbreak. Thus, today, March 13, 2025, I hereby officially declare the end of the MVD outbreak in the country,” she announced.
On January 20, 2025, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, declared an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in the Kagera Region. Two laboratory-confirmed cases were identified in the Biharamulo District, both of whom tragically died during treatment.
MVD is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals. It poses significant risks of morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic disruption if not promptly contained.
Following the outbreak declaration, the Tanzanian government, in collaboration with stakeholders and partners, implemented stringent control measures in the affected areas. Regular updates were provided to the public through various media platforms. The last confirmed MVD case was reported on January 28, 2025.
Tanzania remains at risk for other infectious diseases, including Ebola and Mpox. Citizens are urged to cooperate with health authorities and adhere to preventive measures.
The Tanzanian government reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the health of its citizens and the international community.
Chronology of major Marburg virus disease outbreaks
| Year | Country | Cases | Deaths | Case fatality rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Rwanda | 66 | 15 | 23% |
| 2023 | Tanzania | 9 | 6 | 67% |
| 2023 | Equatorial Guinea | 40 | 35 | 88% |
| 2022 | Ghana | 3 | 2 | 67% |
| 2021 | Guinea | 1 | 1 | 100% |
| 2017 | Uganda | 3 | 3 | 100% |
| 2014 | Uganda | 1 | 1 | 100% |
| 2012 | Uganda | 15 | 4 | 27% |
| 2008 | Netherland (ex-Uganda) | 1 | 1 | 100% |
| 2008 | United States of America (ex-Uganda) | 1 | 0 | 0% |
| 2007 | Uganda | 4 | 2 | 50% |
| 2005 | Angola | 374 | 329 | 88% |
| 1998 to 2000 | Democratic Republic of the Congo | 154 | 128 | 83% |
| 1987 | Kenya | 1 | 1 | 100% |
| 1980 | Kenya | 2 | 1 | 50% |
| 1975 | South Africa | 3 | 1 | 33% |
| 1967 | Yugoslavia | 2 | 0 | 0% |
| 1967 | Germany | 29 | 7 | 24% |
International Response and Regional Health Challenges
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the WHO commended Tanzania’s swift and effective response to the MVD outbreak. The WHO Regional Office for Africa confirmed the outbreak’s end after 42 days without new cases.
This successful containment marks Tanzania’s second victory over Marburg, following a 2023 outbreak in the same region.
Despite this success, Africa faces ongoing health challenges, including outbreaks of Mpox, Ebola, and cholera.
Uganda is experiencing a Mpox outbreak, with the epicentre in the Kampala area.
The Democratic Republic of Congo faces challenges in managing Mpox due to ongoing conflict in the eastern regions.
Namibia reported its first cholera case in a decade, and Angola is fighting an ongoing cholera outbreak.
The Africa CDC emphasizes the need for sustainable financing solutions, national ownership, and strengthened local manufacturing capabilities.
“Health security in Africa is global health security,” stated Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC.
