Wednesday, 19 November

Ghana on high alert: Marburg virus outbreak in Ethiopia sparks precautions

Health News
Marburg virus

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a press release announcing that the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring reports of a confirmed Marburg virus disease outbreak in Ethiopia.

According to the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), nine cases and three deaths were reported as of November 14, 2025.

 Due to frequent travel between Ghana and Ethiopia, the Ministry of Health and its agencies are taking preventive measures to ensure the safety of Ghanaians.

These measures include heightened surveillance at points of entry, issuing alerts to all regions and health facilities, activating public health emergency response structures, and engaging with one health partners like the Veterinary Services Directorate and the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission.

 The Marburg Virus Disease, caused by the Marburg virus, can be transmitted from animals to humans and between humans. Symptoms include fever, bloody diarrhoea, bleeding from the gums, into the skin, into the eyes, and bloody urine.

The incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days, and treatment is symptomatic with no vaccine currently available.

 The public is advised to watch out for these symptoms and report to the nearest health facility if they occur.

Basic infection prevention and control measures like regular hand hygiene, avoiding contact with sick individuals or animals showing symptoms of bleeding are recommended.

 Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the GHS, assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure safety.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Rebecca Abhena Kekeli Nyame