The Ghana Health Service (GHS), under the Ministry of Health (MoH), has released an official statement confirming that it is closely monitoring a reported outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in Ethiopia. According to the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), nine cases and three deaths were confirmed on 14th November 2025, prompting immediate international public health attention. The World Health Organization (WHO) was also notified of the outbreak on the same day.
Given the frequent travel between Ghana and Ethiopia, the Ministry of Health emphasizes that precautionary measures are already underway to safeguard the Ghanaian public. Authorities are collaborating with key partners across the health sector to strengthen prevention and early detection capabilities.
Preventive Measures Announced
To ensure maximum public protection, the GHS has outlined several interventions now in effect nationwide:
- Heightened surveillance at all ports of entry to monitor and screen travellers.
- Issuance of health alerts to all regional health directorates and medical facilities.
- Activation of public health emergency response structures to coordinate preparedness.
- Partnership with relevant health agencies, including the Veterinary Services Directorate and the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, to monitor possible animal-to-human transmission pathways.
These measures are aimed at ensuring early detection, preventing importation of the virus, and containing any potential spread.
Understanding Marburg Virus Disease
Marburg Virus Disease is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus, a pathogen closely related to the Ebola virus. It is transmitted from animals to humans, particularly through fruit bats, and can also spread through direct contact with infected individuals.
The incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days, and currently, there is no vaccine for the disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care.
Common Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease
The GHS urges the public to look out for the following signs:
- Fever
- Bloody diarrhea
- Bleeding from gums
- Bleeding into the skin
- Bleeding into the eyes
- Bloody urine
Anyone experiencing these symptoms is strongly advised to report immediately to the nearest health facility.
Public Health Advice
To reduce the risk of infection, GHS encourages the public to adhere to effective infection-prevention practices:
- Maintain regular hand hygiene, using soap under running water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Avoid direct contact with individuals who are unwell or showing symptoms of bleeding.
- Avoid contact with animals, especially those displaying abnormal signs such as bleeding or illness.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service assure citizens that all necessary precautions are being implemented and urge the public to remain calm but vigilant.
Assurance to the Public
Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, reiterated in the release that Ghana’s health authorities are committed to safeguarding the nation. He stressed that surveillance and emergency response mechanisms have been heightened to ensure Ghana is prepared to respond swiftly should the need arise.
As global health threats continue to emerge, the public is encouraged to stay informed through verified channels and comply with all instructions from health authorities.
