The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a public alert following the confirmation of a Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Ethiopia, calling for heightened vigilance across the country.
In a statement signed by Acting Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, GHS said the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) notified the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 14, 2025, of nine confirmed cases and three deaths.
GHS emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored due to frequent travel between Ghana and Ethiopia, and that preventive measures have already been activated to protect the public.
The Ministry of Health and GHS are implementing several interventions, including increased surveillance at all points of entry, issuing alerts to regions and health facilities, activating public health emergency response structures, and engaging with One Health partners such as the Veterinary Services Directorate and Wildlife Division.
Marburg Virus Disease is a highly infectious illness caused by the Marburg virus. It spreads from animals to humans and can also be transmitted between people. The incubation period ranges from two to 21 days. There is currently no vaccine, and treatment is primarily supportive.
The public is advised to report immediately to the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms such as fever, bloody diarrhoea, bleeding from the gums, bleeding into the skin or eyes, or bloody urine.
GHS also urged strict adherence to preventive measures, including frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, avoiding direct contact with symptomatic individuals, and steering clear of animals showing bleeding symptoms.
The Service reassured Ghanaians that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the population.
Read the statement below:
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