The Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak presents significant challenges to the health systems in the Kagera Region and potentially neighbouring areas. Healthcare facilities, including faith-based institutions that constitute a vital component of the region’s healthcare delivery, face limited resources, inadequate preparedness, and the urgent need for surge capacity to manage the disease effectively. At the community level, widespread myths, misconceptions, and stigma further exacerbate the crisis, impeding early detection, prevention, and treatment efforts. For example, many communities associate the disease with witchcraft, which discourages individuals from seeking timely medical care and complicates containment measures. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions, are at heightened risk, making a comprehensive and inclusive response essential.
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) proposes targeted interventions to strengthen the health system and engage communities effectively. ELCT’s previous experience underscores the importance of leveraging faith-based networks, delivering accurate health messaging, and fostering community involvement to build resilience against outbreaks.
