The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has confirmed that the viral haemorrhagic fever responsible for at least six deaths in Jinka in South Omo Zone was caused by the Marburg virus.
In a statement, the ministry said it has activated its incident management system to coordinate field investigations, clinical care and community surveillance, while experts continue tracing contacts and assessing potential spread.
It warned that Marburg is a highly dangerous illness that requires immediate medical attention.
The virus is known for its high fatality rate and rapid transmission through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials.
Residents were urged to avoid direct contact with sick individuals, refrain from handling wild animals – particularly fruit bats, which are considered natural hosts – and practice strict personal hygiene.
People experiencing symptoms resembling Marburg infection have been advised to report to the nearest health facility without delay.
The ministry said it is working to prevent the virus from spreading to other areas and that further updates will be issued as field assessments and laboratory results continue.
The World Health Organisation has praised the Ethiopian government for its swift response stating the East African country demonstrated a “commitment to bringing the outbreak under control quickly.”
The WHO has dispatched a technical team to support the East African nation with testing and outbreak response efforts.
MG/jn/APA