By Michael Gwarisa
Health officials who were initially skeptical about the cause of a suspected haemorrhagic fever reported in Jinka, Southern Region of Ethiopia, have now confirmed that the disease is the Marburg virus. Marburg virus disease (MVD), formerly known as Marburg haemorrhagic fever, is a severe and often fatal illness in humans. The average case fatality rate is around 50 percent, although previous outbreaks have recorded rates ranging from 24 to 88 percent.
In a statement, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said the Federal Ministry of Health of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) have confirmed an outbreak of MVD in Jinka. As of 14 November 2025, nine cases have been reported. Clinical samples tested at Ethiopia’s National Reference Laboratory confirmed the presence of the virus. Further epidemiological investigations and laboratory analyses are ongoing, and the detected strain shows similarities to previous Marburg strains found in East Africa.
The initial alert of a suspected viral haemorrhagic fever was shared with Africa CDC on 12 November 2025. Following the confirmation, the Ministry of Health, EPHI and regional authorities activated response measures. These include heightened surveillance, field investigations, strengthened infection prevention and control practices and community engagement to support early detection and limit transmission. Africa CDC commended the government for its rapid action and transparent communication, noting that this has supported early confirmation and containment efforts.
Africa CDC has been a long-standing partner of EPHI in building Ethiopia’s molecular diagnostic and genomic surveillance capacity. These capabilities were immediately deployed in response to the outbreak. Through this collaboration, Africa CDC has provided genome sequencing equipment, sequencing reagents, PCR detection kits including Marburg-specific assays and extensive training for laboratory personnel in sequencing, bioinformatics, biosafety, personal protective equipment use and safe sample management.
The core genomics facility at EPHI has also been strengthened through support from Africa CDC and partners such as the Global Fund, the World Health Organization and the United Kingdom Health Security Agency. This support has enhanced Ethiopia’s ability to confirm outbreaks rapidly and improve overall national readiness.
The Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), one of Ethiopia’s leading research institutions, has similarly benefited from strengthened genomics capacity through Africa CDC support. AHRI has received equipment, reagents and targeted training that position it to play a key role in the Marburg response. Officials say the outbreak presents an opportunity to improve care for affected communities and generate innovations in Marburg prevention, diagnostics and treatment.
To enhance coordination, Africa CDC and the Ministry of Health will integrate Marburg response activities with ongoing mpox preparedness and surveillance efforts. Officials say the joint strategy is intended to optimise resources, improve early detection and reduce the risk of regional spread.
