Kenya on high alert as Marburg virus confirmed in Tanzania

Kenya has heightened its preparedness for a potential Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak following the confirmation of a case in Tanzania's Kagera region on Sunday, January 20.

The Ministry of Health confirmed that the virus had been identified after one case tested positive for MVD, marking the country’s first reported outbreak of the disease.

“There are currently no cases of Marburg Virus Disease in Kenya,” the Ministry of Health said in a statement on Monday, January 21, adding, “However, Kenya remains at high risk due to significant cross-border movement between Tanzania and neighbouring countries in the region.”

MVD is a severe and often fatal disease caused by the Marburg virus. It is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of infected people or fruit bats, which are known to carry the virus.

Close contacts such as family members, caregivers, and healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable if they do not use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) while caring for patients or handling the bodies of those who have died from the virus.

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The Ministry noted that preparedness measures have been escalated to prevent the disease from spreading into Kenya.

“We remain committed to protecting the health and safety of all Kenyans,” said the statement.

The Ministry also revealed plans to enhance the country’s surveillance systems, conduct a readiness assessment, and develop a comprehensive Marburg Virus Disease preparedness and response plan.

Transmission of the virus is primarily through bodily fluids, and the Ministry outlined several preventive measures for the public to reduce the risk of contracting MVD.

 “To protect yourself, your family, and your community, ensure that anyone showing symptoms of MVD is immediately taken to a designated treatment centre,” the Ministry added.

 It also stressed the importance of not treating patients at home, advising those with symptoms to seek medical assistance promptly.

The Ministry also provided guidance on the treatment of those who have died from the virus, urging that bodies should not be touched or washed.

“It is very important to not touch or wash the body of anyone who has died with symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease,” the statement read.

 “Burial teams should take a swab from the mouth of the deceased for testing. If the test is positive, the team will ensure a safe burial while allowing the family to mourn in a dignified way.”

Early detection and isolation are key to reducing transmission, and individuals who have had close contact with infected persons will be monitored for 21 days for early signs of the virus.

“People who have had close contact with MVD patients will be identified as contacts, and their health will be monitored for 21 days,” the Ministry stated.

The government urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and adhere to public health guidelines in order to limit the risk of MVD.