Ethiopia has confirmed its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak after nine cases were detected in the southern Omo region bordering South Sudan, prompting swift international support and heightened regional concern.

The announcement followed days of investigation into a suspected viral hemorrhagic fever, with health authorities moving quickly to contain the spread in a region where cross-border movement is frequent.

Jocomms Correspondent reports that the World Health Organization (WHO) has praised Ethiopia’s rapid action, with Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commending the government’s transparency and commitment to early intervention.

A WHO technical team deployed on Thursday to assist with testing, case management and outbreak response, while essential supplies—including protective equipment, infection-prevention materials and an isolation tent—were also dispatched. Africa CDC’s Director-General, Jean Kaseya, warned that the situation is particularly concerning due to South Sudan’s proximity and fragile health system.

The Marburg virus, a deadly hemorrhagic disease related to Ebola, is transmitted through fruit bats and spreads between humans via contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms range from fever and vomiting to severe bleeding, and with no approved vaccine or treatment, early detection and containment are critical. As Ethiopia races to stop further spread, the pressing question remains—can rapid intervention prevent this outbreak from becoming a wider regional threat?

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