The Burundian government is stepping up measures to prevent the spread of the Marburg virus, a deadly hemorrhagic fever, after neighboring Tanzania reported cases of the disease. Health authorities are particularly concerned about the risk of cross-border transmission and are urging heightened vigilance among the population, particularly those living in provinces near the Tanzanian border.
The Burundi Ministry of Public Health released a statement on January 23, 2025, calling on the public to be aware of the symptoms and take immediate precautions. “We are facing a high threat, and every effort is being made to protect our population,” the statement read. “We urge everyone, especially those near the border with Tanzania, to be vigilant.”
Marburg virus is transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids from infected people or animals, as well as through contaminated surfaces. The virus is known for causing severe symptoms, including bleeding, vomiting, and diarrhea, and has a high fatality rate. Wild animals, particularly fruit bats, are believed to be the main reservoirs of the virus.
“We are closely monitoring the situation in Tanzania, where the virus has been reported,” the Ministry’s statement continued. “Our priority is to prevent any possible transmission across the border.”
According to the Burundi ministry of health to safeguard against the spread, the government has enacted several precautionary measures. These include increased health checks at all border points, including land, sea, and air crossings, with special attention to those along the border with Tanzania. Health authorities have also deployed a mobile laboratory capable of rapidly diagnosing suspected cases, in addition to bolstering the resources of the national laboratory.
Furthermore, prevention and care kits have been repositioned at high-risk health facilities, and public health campaigns are underway to raise awareness of Marburg symptoms and transmission methods.
“The Marburg virus can be prevented with the right actions,” said Dr. Lydwine Baradahana, Minister of Public Health, in a statement. “We must practice rigorous hygiene, avoid physical contact with sick individuals, and report any persons who have recently traveled to an affected area. Early detection and isolation are key to controlling the spread.”
The Ministry also advised anyone who has recently visited an epidemic area to stay at home and contact local health authorities. People experiencing symptoms are urged to seek medical attention immediately, and health workers are on the lookout for potential cases.
Marburg virus is closely related to the Ebola virus, both of which belong to the filovirus family. Both diseases share similar symptoms and transmission routes, though Marburg typically has a faster onset of symptoms and higher mortality rates. While there is no specific vaccine or treatment for Marburg, supportive care can improve the chances of survival if the disease is caught early.
The Burundi government has urged the population to avoid handling dead animals, which could also be a source of the virus, and to report any unusual deaths or signs of illness to local health workers.
The Ministry of Public Health reassured the public that the country’s health system is on high alert, with all necessary measures in place to respond to any suspected cases. “We have the capacity to prevent an epidemic,” the statement concluded. “We ask the population not to panic, but to stay informed and take the necessary precautions.”
