Ethiopia Ends First Marburg Virus Outbreak After 42 Day Mandated Cleanup

The Government of Ethiopia has officially declared the end of its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) following the completion of a mandatory follow-up period, with no new confirmed cases reported for consecutive 42 days. The containment of this outbreak was achieved in less than three months through a swift and coordinated response led by the government, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO).

From the onset of the outbreak on November 14, 2025, in the South Ethiopia Region, WHO worked closely with the Ministry of Health and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) to support efforts at national and sub-national levels. WHO Ethiopia played a crucial role in coordinating response operations and providing sustained technical and operational support across all critical response pillars.

These included leadership and coordination, surveillance, laboratory work, case management, infection prevention and control measures, logistics, as well as risk communication and community engagement.

A total of 14 confirmed cases were reported during the outbreak, including nine deaths and five recoveries. The outbreak affected four districts—Jinka, Malle, Arba Minch in the South Ethiopia Region, and Hawassa in the Sidama Region—prompting a rapid activation and expansion of response measures.

These included active case detection, isolation, supportive care, comprehensive contact tracing, strengthened infection prevention and control within health facilities, and community engagement initiatives.

In total, 857 contacts were identified and monitored for 21 days. Among them, three health workers contracted the disease; two died while one recovered. This underscores both the severity of Marburg virus disease and the significant efforts made by frontline responders and affected communities to contain it.

Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba emphasized, “The rapid containment of this outbreak reflects strong national leadership, effective coordination, and the dedication of all parties involved. Sustained preparedness remains essential for protecting the population against future public health threats.”

Additional support was provided by Ethiopia’s prior investments in public health preparedness, including strengthened laboratory capacities, improved disease surveillance systems, a trained surge workforce, and coordination through the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.

These resources allowed for early detection, rapid scale-up of diagnostic capabilities, deployment of responders, and continuity of essential healthcare services. The Ethiopian Pandemic Multi-Sectoral Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Project and the AVoHC-SURGE program were key initiatives that facilitated these efforts.

Dr. Francis Chisaka Kasolo, WHO Representative in Ethiopia, noted, “WHO highly values the timely measures taken by the Ministry of Health and Government of Ethiopia. We remain committed to supporting national efforts to further strengthen capacities for preventing, detecting, and responding to future public health emergencies.” The Marburg outbreak response exemplifies the importance of sustained preparedness and effective coordination.