Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, January 26,2026 — The Ministry of Health has officially declared the end of the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Ethiopia on 26th January, following 42 consecutive days with no new confirmed cases, in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.
The Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI) was formally recognized for its pivotal role in providing scientific leadership in conducting phase II Marburg virus vaccine clinical trial as part of Ethiopia’s national response to the outbreak.
Throughout the response, AHRI served as the country’s clinical trial hub for scientific intervention. A key contribution was its pioneering clinical research. In a remarkable achievement, AHRI—working in close partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Sabin Vaccine Institute, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI)—successfully launched Ethiopia’s first-ever Phase II clinical trial of the cAd3 Marburg virus vaccine in field settings characterized by significant logistical constraints. This proactive effort created an opportunity to assess the vaccine among frontline workers, healthcare professionals involved in MVD management, and high-risk contacts.
To overcome access challenges in remote areas, AHRI, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS) and the INSA, deployed drone technology to deliver vaccines to hard-to-reach locations such as Dasenech—demonstrating an innovative approach to outbreak response and clinical research delivery.
During the official recognition ceremony, H.E. Mr. Tagese Chafo, Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia, and H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health, presented a certificate of recognition and a crystal award to the Director General of AHRI, Professor Afework Kassu, in acknowledgment of the Institute’s outstanding contribution. In addition, Deputy Director General of AHRI Dr Alemseged Abddissa received certificate of recognition for his contribution in the national Marburg virus outbreak national task force.
AHRI extends its deepest gratitude to its national and international partners, the dedicated health professionals on the front lines, and the entire AHRI team, whose unwavering commitment was instrumental in bringing the outbreak to a successful conclusion.
