A significant health alert has been issued concerning a Marburg outbreak in Ethiopia, specifically impacting the South Ethiopia Regional State and Sidama Regional State. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health officially announced a new case of Marburg on November 27, which was contracted in the city of Hawassa, located within the Sidama Regional State.

In response to this developing situation and as a precautionary measure, the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa has implemented stringent travel restrictions. Effective immediately and until further notice, official and personal travel for Embassy personnel to the state of Sidama has been prohibited. This restriction supplements an earlier directive that similarly restricted official or personal travel to the South Ethiopia Regional State for Embassy staff.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also addressed the outbreak by issuing a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Marburg in Ethiopia, advising individuals to "Practice Usual Precautions." This classification indicates that while the risk for most travelers is low, it is important to be aware of the situation and take preventive measures.

To mitigate the risk of contraction, several key actions are recommended for individuals traveling to or residing in the affected regions. It is crucial to avoid contact with sick people exhibiting symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and rash. Furthermore, direct contact with blood and other body fluids should be strictly avoided. Travelers are also advised to stay clear of fruit bats and the environments they inhabit, including caves and mines, as well as non-human primates like monkeys, which can carry the virus.

Should any individual develop Marburg symptoms, such as fever, muscle pain, or rash, during or up to 21 days after travel to the South Ethiopia Regional State or Sidama Regional State, immediate medical attention is necessary. It is important to self-isolate from others and call ahead before arriving at a healthcare facility, informing medical staff of recent travel history to these regions. Additionally, given that Marburg symptoms can mimic those of malaria, travelers are urged to continue taking malaria prophylaxis as prescribed by a healthcare provider to prevent unnecessary health scares.

For further information and guidance, individuals are encouraged to visit the CDC Marburg page for details on symptoms and prevention, as well as the CDC Travelers' Health Page for Ethiopia. Checking with travel insurance providers regarding options in case of illness while in Ethiopia is also advised. The U.S. Embassy Addis Ababa provides assistance and can be reached at Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, +251 111 30 79 00, or via email at [email protected]. Comprehensive information is also available on the Embassy's homepage. The State Department - Consular Affairs can be contacted at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444. Travelers should refer to the Ethiopia International Travel Information and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts. Updates are also available by following the Embassy on Facebook and Twitter.