Overview
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is closely monitoring reports of a suspected viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF) case in Jinka, located in the Southern Region of Ethiopia. As of 12 November 2025, Ethiopian health authorities have initiated investigative measures, and Africa CDC is coordinating with national partners to assess risk, strengthen surveillance, and ensure timely public health actions. This statement summarizes what is known, what is being done, and what communities and travelers should know.
What is known about the case
Initial information indicates a suspected VHF case reported by Ethiopian health authorities in the Jinka area. VHF refers to a group of illnesses caused by distinct viruses, including Ebola, Marburg, Lassa, Rift Valley fever, and others. The full clinical characterization, epidemiological links, and laboratory confirmation are pending, and authorities are prioritizing rapid testing and contact tracing. As with all suspected VHF events, early isolation of suspected cases, strict infection prevention and control (IPC) in health facilities, and safe handling of specimens are essential to prevent potential amplification of transmission.
Africa CDC’s role and ongoing actions
Africa CDC is actively engaging with the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Regional Health Bureau to:
– Review surveillance data and laboratory capacity for rapid diagnostics.
– Support IPC training and the implementation of standard precautions in healthcare settings.
– Coordinate risk communication to communities and travelers about the situation and protective measures.
– Facilitate cross-border preparedness in neighboring countries to identify and mitigate potential importation risks.
Coordination and support
The agency is aligning with regional partners and international health regulations to ensure a timely, transparent, and proportionate response. This includes sharing guidelines, providing technical expertise, and facilitating access to necessary reagents and sample transportation when required. Africa CDC emphasizes that, at this stage, the situation is under investigation, and there is no confirmed confirmation of VHF in the community until laboratory results are released.
<h2What communities should know
Public health guidance remains focused on basic, proven measures to reduce transmission risk. Residents of Jinka and surrounding areas should demand accurate information from official sources and follow directives from Ethiopian health authorities. Key precautions include:
– Seek medical care promptly if you develop fever with fatigue, weakness, bleeding, or any unusual symptoms, especially after potential exposure.
– Practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals who are acutely ill.
– Avoid handling blood or body fluids of unknown illness; use personal protective equipment if you must handle potentially contaminated materials.
– Do not stigmatize patients or healthcare workers; support ongoing public health efforts and report concerns to local health authorities.
<h2Travel and cross-border considerations
As investigations continue, travelers to and from the Southern Region should stay informed through official channels. If you are planning travel near Jinka, monitor updates from Africa CDC and Ethiopian health authorities, follow local guidance, and seek medical advice if you develop symptoms after travel. In case of suspected exposure or illness, contact healthcare providers who can guide you on testing and care while ensuring safety protocols are observed.
What to expect next
Africa CDC and Ethiopian authorities will provide periodic updates as diagnostic results become available. The response will adapt to how the investigation unfolds, including possible escalation of IPC measures, public information campaigns, or targeted vaccination or prophylaxis if a defined etiologic agent is identified and an effective intervention exists. The public should rely on information from official sources and practice patience as laboratories confirm findings.
Public health fundamentals to remember
VHF outbreaks require rapid detection, strong IPC in health facilities, community engagement, and effective risk communication. The collaboration between national bodies, Africa CDC, and international partners is essential to limiting transmission, protecting healthcare workers, and maintaining essential services in Ethiopia and the broader region.
