Addis Ababa – The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched an urgent response to a suspected outbreak of viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF) in southern Ethiopia, following reports that at least eight people, including health workers, have been infected.
According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the organization is working closely with Ethiopia’s Federal Ministry of Health, the Ethiopia Public Health Institute, and regional health authorities to contain the situation and prevent further spread.
“As part of the rapid response, WHO has deployed experts to the affected towns, delivered medicines and essential supplies, and provided personal protective equipment (PPE) for health workers,” Dr. Tedros stated. He also confirmed that US$300,000 has been released from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies to provide immediate support for outbreak control measures.
Samples from suspected cases have been sent to laboratories for testing to determine the exact cause of the illness. WHO has also begun supporting contact tracing within affected communities to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed.
Dr. Tedros emphasized that WHO offices in Ethiopia and South Sudan are coordinating closely to minimize the risk of cross-border transmission. “WHO is ready to scale up support as needed,” he said, noting that the organization remains on high alert given the potential severity of viral haemorrhagic fevers, which can spread rapidly and carry a high fatality rate.
The Director-General commended Ethiopian health authorities for their swift action and transparent communication, describing their efforts as crucial in ensuring a rapid and coordinated response.
“Timely sharing of information and decisive national leadership are key to protecting lives,” Dr. Tedros added. “WHO stands ready to provide full support to Ethiopia in its ongoing efforts to manage and contain the outbreak.”
Further details on the test results and the specific type of viral haemorrhagic fever involved are expected in the coming days.