MARA Regional Commissioner Col. Alfred Mtambi has urged residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the threat of Marburg virus infections.

Speaking at a meeting early this week convened to introduce the roles and responsibilities of the Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA), Col. Mtambi said although only one case has been confirmed in Kagera Region, the possibility of undetected cases remains.

He called on residents to follow the advice of health experts in combating the virus, which includes abandoning certain traditional practices, saying   washing hands properly with soap and water can help prevent the spread of the germs (like bacteria and viruses) that cause the  diseases..

“Health experts, district leaders and local government officials must continue educating the public and providing clear guidelines on preventing the spread of this disease,” he said.

Erick Muhigi, Regional Assistant Administrative Secretary in charge of health, nutrition and social welfare, noted that the region has intensified public education awareness on the Marburg virus following the confirmed case in Kagera Region.

Muhigi explained that symptoms of the virus include high fever, severe headache, malaise, muscle aches and pains, as well as severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, and vomiting, which can begin on the third day.

Non-itchy rashes have been reported in patients between two and seven days after the onset of symptoms.

“The virus spreads through various means, including contact with sweat, urine, blood, faeces, vomit, clothing, bedding or direct contact with an infected person or animal,” Muhigi said.

He emphasised the need for precautions, such as washing hands with running water and soap, avoiding touching or handling the bodies of those who have died from the disease, and refraining from consuming animal carcasses.

“The virus spreads rapidly within communities, and infected individuals can begin showing symptoms within two to 21 days. They may also transmit the virus to others, even if they are asymptomatic,” he said.

To prevent a potential outbreak, the region has strengthened monitoring measures at the Sirari border, crossing points used by individuals entering from neighbouring countries, Musoma airport and other regional airstrips.