By Joseph Besong
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed the emergence of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Jinka, Southern Region of Ethiopia, following official notification by the Federal Ministry of Health and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI). The confirmation, issued on 15 November 2025, marks a significant public health event for the country and the region — but one for which Ethiopia’s strengthened diagnostic and genomic systems are proving crucial.
According to authorities, the National Reference Laboratory verified Marburg infection on 14 November, after an initial alert of suspected viral haemorrhagic fever was shared with Africa CDC two days earlier. Early laboratory results indicate that the Marburg strain detected in Jinka resembles those previously recorded in parts of East Africa, although further analyses and epidemiological investigations are underway.
Swift National Response Activated
The Federal Ministry of Health, EPHI, and regional health authorities have launched a comprehensive response, including:
- Enhanced surveillance to identify new suspected cases
- Field investigations and contact tracing
- Strengthened infection prevention and control (IPC) across health facilities
- Community engagement and risk communication to support early reporting and reduce transmission
Africa CDC commended Ethiopian authorities for their rapid mobilisation, transparency, and readiness — factors that enabled immediate confirmation and early containment measures.
Africa CDC Support Proves Instrumental
Africa CDC highlighted that Ethiopia’s prompt laboratory confirmation was made possible through years of investment in national diagnostic and genomic surveillance capacity. Through its partnership with EPHI, Africa CDC has provided:
- Genome-sequencing equipment and reagents
- Marburg-specific PCR detection kits
- Extensive training in genome sequencing, biosafety, bioinformatics, and safe sample handling
- Strengthened biosurveillance systems operated jointly with partners including the Global Fund, WHO, and the UK Health Security Agency
These advanced capabilities at EPHI’s Core Genomics Facility were immediately deployed as part of the outbreak response.
AHRI Positioned for Frontline Scientific Role
Africa CDC also emphasised the crucial contribution of the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), whose research and genomic capacity has been significantly enhanced through Africa CDC support. With upgraded equipment, reagents, and specialised training, AHRI is expected to play a leading role in diagnostics, surveillance research, and development of new tools that can inform Marburg prevention, treatment, and community care.
According to Africa CDC, this outbreak presents an important opportunity to advance scientific understanding of Marburg virus in East Africa and improve future preparedness.
Integrated Marburg–Mpox Preparedness Strategy
To maximise efficiency and minimise risk of cross-border spread, Africa CDC and the Ministry of Health will integrate Marburg virus response activities with existing mpox surveillance and preparedness initiatives. This joint strategy is designed to:
- Strengthen early-warning systems
- Coordinate laboratory and field-response assets
- Ensure efficient use of resources
- Build a unified protocol for high-threat pathogen detection
High-Level Coordination and Regional Readiness
Africa CDC Director-General, H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya, is scheduled to meet the Ethiopian Minister of Health to assess further support needs, reinforce rapid cross-border readiness, and align with regional stakeholders. Africa CDC reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government of Ethiopia, neighbouring countries, and international partners to contain the outbreak swiftly and effectively.
The organisation pledged to provide continuous updates as new information becomes available.
