First Outbreak of Marburg Virus Confirmed by WHO in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the first outbreak of the Marburg virus in the South Ethiopia region in Africa, with three reported deaths and more anticipated. According to Reuters, Ethiopia’s health ministry announced on Monday, November 17, 2025, that the three fatalities are suspected to be linked to the highly contagious haemorrhagic disease. The ministry stated, “The Ethiopian Public Health Institute’s reference laboratory has confirmed that three people have died from the virus.” It was also revealed that an additional three deaths are under investigation for possible connection to the disease. Marburg virus, similar to Ebola, often leads to severe headaches and hemorrhaging. Previous outbreaks in Africa have shown fatality rates surpassing 80%, usually within eight to nine days of symptoms appearing.