Ethiopia has declared the end of its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak, with no new confirmed cases reported for 42 consecutive days, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Authorities confirmed 14 cases during the outbreak, which began in November in the Southern Ethiopian Region, resulting in nine fatalities.

"The rapid containment of this outbreak reflects strong national leadership, effective coordination, and the dedication of frontline responders and communities," said Mekdes Daba Feyssa, the country’s Minister of Health.

WHO praised Ethiopia's rapid response, noting that active case detection, contact monitoring, and community engagement were critical in stopping transmission.

Health authorities stressed the importance of remaining vigilant to prevent future outbreaks.

Marburg is a rare but deadly virus similar to Ebola that causes fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding. There is currently no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for it.