The Tanzanian government has enhanced its preventive efforts against the Marburg virus, following confirmed cases in neighboring Rwanda. Health authorities have ramped up protective measures, particularly at key entry points and high-risk regions, to safeguard healthcare workers and the public.
Chief Medical Officer Tumaini Nagu stated that updated medical guidelines are being implemented to protect healthcare workers, who are often at the highest risk during outbreaks. Recent reports from Rwanda indicated that of the 26 confirmed Marburg cases, six resulted in fatalities, with several healthcare personnel among those infected.
In Tanzania, specific measures have been heightened in four regions: Kagera, Rukwa, Mwanza, and Katavi, where over 1,000 protective gear kits have already been distributed to medical personnel. Kagera, which borders Rwanda and Uganda, received 600 of these kits, while the remaining regions have been prioritized based on risk levels.
During a visit to Julius Nyerere International Airport on October 1, 2024, to assess national preparedness, Health Ministry Permanent Secretary John Jingu stressed the importance of ensuring healthcare providers are protected. “Our healthcare staff has been trained to follow strict infection prevention protocols. The risk of viral transmission is especially high during patient treatment, making these precautions essential,” Jingu said.
The Ministry of Health is also intensifying border surveillance at key land crossings, airports, and ports to prevent the virus from entering the country. Jingu noted, “Last year, we successfully controlled the Marburg outbreak in Kagera. This year, we are again taking necessary steps to monitor our borders and enhance surveillance at all entry points.”
Public awareness campaigns have also been launched across media platforms, encouraging citizens to adopt preventive practices, including regular handwashing, using hand sanitisers, and avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals.
“The public needs to be informed of the symptoms and dangers of the virus, such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea, with late-stage symptoms including bleeding,” Prof Nagu explained. “People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical care rather than self-medicating.”
She also urged the public to avoid contact with dead animals and refrain from consuming their meat, as fluids from infected animals or humans can carry the virus. Prof Nagu reminded citizens that reporting suspected cases through the national emergency hotline (199) could save lives, as help will be provided immediately.
The Marburg virus last affected Tanzania in 2023 when an outbreak in Kagera resulted in nine confirmed cases and six deaths, including a healthcare worker and an infant. In June 2023, Tanzania declared the outbreak officially over after 42 consecutive days without new cases.