Kenya has heightened its alert after the Ethiopian Ministry of Health reported an outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Jinka town, South Ethiopia, on November 12, 2025. The disease, which is severe and often fatal, is transmitted from bats to humans and is clinically similar to Ebola.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed that the Ministry of Health has activated emergency response mechanisms, including increased surveillance at airports and other entry points. “We have enhanced surveillance to stop the disease from spreading into the country,” she said.
Speaking to community health workers in Mbeere North, PS Muthoni urged Kenyans to maintain high hygiene standards. She emphasized regular handwashing and boiling drinking water as key preventive measures. “During the Covid-19 pandemic, hygiene-related illnesses declined due to frequent handwashing. We need to return to those practices to stay safe,” she said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting Ethiopian authorities in enhancing coordination, case management, infection control, laboratory testing, and community engagement. Initial investigations indicate fruit bats, the natural host of the virus, may be linked to the outbreak. So far, six of 33 suspected cases have been confirmed, including three deaths, while three patients are receiving treatment.
MVD has a high fatality rate of up to 88%, though timely medical care can reduce risks. Past outbreaks have occurred in Tanzania, Angola, DRC, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda.
PS Muthoni also called on all Kenyans to register under the Social Health Insurance Fund for better access to healthcare. Additionally, she raised concerns about the increasing import of e-cigarettes into Kenya, highlighting their health risks.
With vigilant surveillance, public health awareness, and strict hygiene measures, Kenyan authorities aim to prevent the spread of Marburg virus within the country.
