Marburg outbreak confirmed in Jinka, Ethiopia
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed a Marburg virus disease (MVD) case in Jinka, located in the Southern Region of Ethiopia. The development marks a critical moment for the country’s public health system and prompts rapid, coordinated action to contain the virus, protect communities, and prevent further transmission. Local authorities, with support from international partners, are strengthening surveillance, case management, and community engagement to curb the spread.
Africa CDC steps in to bolster Ethiopia’s response
In response to the detection of Marburg in Jinka, Africa CDC has deployed technical experts, field teams, and epidemiological support to reinforce Ethiopia’s existing response framework. The agency is coordinating cross-border risk assessment, contact tracing, and laboratory testing, while ensuring that health facilities have the necessary supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and isolation spaces. This joint effort aims to shorten the time from case identification to isolation and treatment, reducing the potential for wider community transmission.
What this means for Ethiopia’s public health system
The outbreak response in Ethiopia now benefits from enhanced surveillance networks and data-sharing mechanisms established by Africa CDC. Real-time data collection and analysis are helping health authorities map transmission chains, identify hotspots, and tailor interventions to local needs. The collaboration also prioritizes risk communication to dispel misinformation, promote safe practices, and encourage individuals to seek care promptly if they experience symptoms consistent with Marburg virus disease.
Key response strategies being emphasized
- Active case finding and contact tracing to identify people who may have been exposed and monitor them for signs of illness.
- Rapid diagnostic testing and secure, isolated treatment facilities to reduce transmission risk and improve patient outcomes.
- Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures across clinics, hospitals, and community settings.
- Community engagement to build trust, communicate risk, and encourage behavioral changes that lower exposure risk.
What communities can do to stay safe
Residents in affected regions are urged to follow official guidance, practice good hand hygiene, and report any symptoms such as fever, malaise, or severe headache to local health authorities. Travel advisories, if issued, should be followed, and individuals should avoid contact with potentially infectious materials or sick individuals. Healthcare workers are advised to adhere strictly to IPC protocols and to seek training on Marburg-specific infection control as part of the ongoing support from Africa CDC and partners.
Looking ahead
While the situation remains dynamic, the strengthened collaboration between Ethiopia and Africa CDC demonstrates a commitment to rapid containment and transparent communication. By combining surveillance, laboratory capacity, frontline clinical care, and community outreach, the response aims to minimize the health impact of this outbreak and safeguard the broader population across the region.
