Marburg Virus Outbreak in Ethiopia – SHIFA Statement (November 2025)

Overview

Ethiopia has confirmed its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, with nine detected cases in Jinka, Southern Ethiopia, and three confirmed deaths. Authorities have activated emergency response mechanisms with support from WHO, Africa CDC, and regional health teams.

SHIFA joins the national and international community in responding to this urgent public health threat.

Current Situation

• 9 confirmed cases reported
• 3 confirmed deaths
• Several individuals under monitoring and quarantine
• Outbreak confirmed in Jinka, near the South Sudan border
• Rapid response teams deployed
• WHO and Africa CDC supporting case investigation, isolation, and contact tracing

Marburg virus is a severe viral hemorrhagic fever transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. There is no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment.

SHIFA's Response

1. Community Awareness & Risk Communication

We are mobilizing our youth-led community networks in the Somali Region and beyond to:

• Share accurate information on symptoms and prevention
• Counter misinformation
• Promote safe hygiene practices

2. Supporting Public Health Authorities

SHIFA is coordinating with the Ministry of Health, RHBs, and partners to:

• Strengthen contact tracing
• Support screening and early referrals
• Provide logistics support where needed

3. Surveillance & Reporting

Our team is prepared to assist local health structures in:

• Identifying suspected cases
• Linking communities with health facilities
• Enhancing local surveillance

4. Advocacy for Resources

We call on partners, donors, and humanitarian organizations to:

• Scale up emergency support
• Provide PPE, isolation materials, and community resources
• Strengthen cross-border surveillance

About Marburg Virus

Transmission:

• Direct contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated materials
• Human-to-human spread through close contact
• Origin associated with fruit bats

Symptoms:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Vomiting / diarrhea
• Hemorrhage in severe cases

How Communities Can Protect Themselves

• Wash hands frequently
• Avoid touching bodily fluids of sick individuals
• Seek medical care if symptoms appear
• Follow Ministry of Health updates
• Avoid handling sick animals or bats

SHIFA Will Continue Providing Updates

We will share additional information as the situation evolves.

For inquiries: 📧 info@shifa-et.org