Healthcare workers are at high risk of infection due to potential exposure to contaminated materials and needle-stick injuries.

This marks the second reported outbreak of Marburg in Tanzania, following a previous outbreak in March 2023 that resulted in nine cases and six deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised against imposing travel and trade restrictions on Tanzania, highlighting the country's preparedness to manage the outbreak.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has deployed a team of 12 public health experts and committed $2 million to support Tanzania's response efforts.

In response to the outbreak, the Tanzanian government has enhanced its measures by improving case detection, establishing treatment centers, and deploying national response teams.

Dr. Tedros noted that previous investments in outbreak response have strengthened Tanzania's capacity to handle the current situation.

On January 20, 2025, Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan confirmed a case of Marburg virus in the Kagera region, contradicting earlier denials from health officials.

Laboratory tests at the Kabaile Mobile Laboratory identified one patient as infected, while 25 other suspected cases tested negative and are under close monitoring.

Kagera serves as a transit hub for travelers from neighboring countries, raising concerns about the potential spread of the virus.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus assessed the global risk from this outbreak as low, emphasizing the potential for quick containment.

The WHO is assisting Tanzanian health authorities in outbreak control measures, including surveillance, testing, treatment, and community awareness.

The cause of eight reported deaths in the region remains unknown, prompting further investigation by health authorities.