The Burundian Ministry of Health has urged citizens to adopt precautionary measures to prevent a potential Marburg virus outbreak following reports of cases in neighboring Tanzania. In a press conference on Thursday in Gitega, Burundi’s political capital, Health Minister Lyduine Baradahana confirmed that no Marburg cases have been reported in Burundi, but emphasized the importance of vigilance and early detection.
“We have not identified any cases in Burundi so far,” Baradahana stated, urging anyone experiencing symptoms to immediately visit the nearest health facility. She acknowledged the confirmed outbreak in Tanzania and stressed the need for preventive hygiene measures, especially avoiding direct contact with sick individuals or corpses, as well as refraining from touching dead animals.
In light of the looming threat, the Burundian government has pledged to implement strict preventive measures at the country’s borders. Minister Baradahana urged individuals who have recently traveled to affected regions in Tanzania to stay at home and call the toll-free number 109 if they experience symptoms or need assistance. “Anyone who has lived in or traveled to affected areas is required to stay home and call the toll-free number 109,” she said. Additionally, she encouraged citizens to report anyone who has traveled to high-risk regions to ensure proper monitoring and follow-up.
To tackle the threat of the virus, the Health Ministry has outlined a range of preventive measures, including enhanced screening of travelers at all border entry points such as road crossings, ports, and airports. The Ministry will also deploy digital tools near border areas for swift testing and provide medical supplies to hospitals in potentially high-risk zones.
Furthermore, the Ministry plans to increase public awareness through emergency communication channels and has committed to setting up specialized treatment centers in anticipation of potential cases. Baradahana emphasized the government’s dedication to preventing the spread of the disease and assured that treatment would be available for any confirmed cases.
Earlier this week, Tanzania confirmed an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in its northwestern Kagera region after one case tested positive for the virus. The Burundian Health Ministry has since strengthened preventive measures for travelers, urging them to adhere to infection prevention and control guidelines.
A Marburg virus outbreak was also declared in neighboring Rwanda on September 27, 2024.
According to the World Health Organization, Marburg virus disease (MVD) begins suddenly with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, and intense malaise. On the third day, symptoms may progress to severe watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, and vomiting.
MVD is a highly virulent disease that can lead to hemorrhagic fever, similar to Ebola virus disease. Both Marburg and Ebola viruses belong to the Filoviridae family. The Marburg virus is transmitted through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals, as well as with contaminated surfaces and materials. Infected fruit bats, specifically Rousettus bats, are often the source of the virus, and human-to-human transmission can occur, particularly in healthcare settings or during burial ceremonies involving direct contact with the deceased.
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