The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised Kenya and other countries within the East African region to stay on high alert following a suspected outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD).
In a statement dated Tuesday, January 14, WHO noted that the risk level for the region was high given that 8 people had died from the disease.
Marburg is a fatal disease that presents symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle pain and diarrhoea among others.
Patients also get non-itchy rashes within the first seven days of getting the disease.
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WHO informed its Member States and International Health Regulation State Parties of an outbreak of suspected Marburg Virus Disease in the Kagera region of #Tanzania
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) January 14, 2025
So far, we are aware of 9 suspected cases incl. 8 deaths across 2 districts.
WHO risk assessment of this… pic.twitter.com/y1CUJg3adh
"The risk of this suspected MVD outbreak is assessed as high at the national level due to several concerning factors. The suspected outbreak thus far involves at least nine suspected cases, including eight deaths, resulting in a high CFR of 89%," read the advisory in part.
"Healthcare workers are included among the suspected cases affected, highlighting the risk of nosocomial transmission. The source of the outbreak is currently unknown."
Meanwhile, WHO noted that a team of specialists had been dispatched to Tanzania to help assess the situation as they sought to establish the cause of the disease.
Given that the human-human transmission of the disease is occasioned by contact with blood and body fluids, the international health body listed various precautions to be undertaken during the outbreak.
"Reduce the risk of human-to-human transmission in the community arising from direct or close contact with infected patients, particularly with their body fluids. Close physical contact with MVD patients should be avoided," WHO advised.
"People suspected or confirmed for MVD should immediately seek care in health facilities and be isolated in a designated treatment centre for early care and to avoid transmission at home."
