GHS on Alert after Marburg Outbreak in Ethiopia

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it is on alert following confirmed cases of Marburg virus disease in Ethiopia.

Acknowledging the frequent travel between Ghana and Ethiopia, it said, preventive measures are being taken to ensure the safety of Ghanaians.

Among the outlined measures are heightened surveillance at Ghana’s points of entry; issuance of alerts to all regions and health facilities; activation of public health emergency response structures; and engagement with health partners, including the Veterinary Services Directorate and the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission.

The Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) notified the World Health Organisation of the outbreak on November 14, 2025, with nine confirmed cases and three deaths.

About Marburg
The Marburg Virus Disease is caused by the Marburg virus and can be transmitted from animals to humans and from humans to humans. The incubation period for the disease is two (2) to twenty-one (21) days.

Treatment is symptomatic and there is currently no vaccine available.

Signs and symptoms include fever, Bloody diarrhoea, bleeding from gums, bleeding into the skin, bleeding into the eyes and bloody urine.

The public is encouraged to adhere to basic but effective infection prevention and control:
-Regular hand hygiene – washing with soap under running water or use of alcohol-based hand rub.

-Avoiding direct contact with persons who are unwell or show symptoms.

-Avoiding direct contact with animals that show symptoms of bleeding.

The Ministry of Health through GHS assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure their safety.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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