WORLD Health Organisation (WHO) has donated essential medical equipment worth $30,000 (78m/-) to help combat the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Kagera Region.

In a statement, WHO’s Communications Officer in Tanzania, Priscilla Adjeidu, emphasised the critical support provided to frontline health workers and local communities. Over three tonnes of essential medical supplies, including Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (VHF) kits, ultrasound machines, blood pressure cuffs, and pulse oximeters, have been delivered to assist in patient care.

“The kits, containing vital medical supplies, are part of efforts to bolster frontline healthcare workers’ response. Each kit includes items to protect health workers and effectively treat those affected by the disease,” the release stated.

Dr Noel Saitoti, Team Leader at the Biharamulo treatment centre, highlighted the significance of the donation, noting that the equipment will greatly improve care for critically ill patients. “The support from WHO and partners has been invaluable in ensuring we have the necessary tools to save lives and protect healthcare teams,” he said.

WHO and its partners continue to provide technical, logistical, and operational assistance, including case management, setting up treatment and isolation centres, intensive surveillance, coordination, and community engagement. Training for healthcare and community health workers has also been provided to ensure the outbreak is contained and the health system remains resilient.

Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses, WHO’s Representative to Tanzania, praised the collaborative efforts in addressing the outbreak. “Since the declaration of this outbreak by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom, we have witnessed exceptional coordination across all sectors to fight this deadly virus. With these resources and the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, we can strengthen our response and save more lives,” he said.

Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Godwin Mollel, who received the medical supplies, expressed gratitude to WHO and its partners for their continued support. “Collaboration, coordination, and community engagement are essential to curtailing the spread of MVD and ensuring long-term health security,” he stated.