Oximio Kenya’s Rapid Response to Marburg Virus Outbreak
When infectious disease outbreaks emerge, speed, precision, and trust in the supply chain can make a life-saving difference. In late 2025, as Ethiopia faced its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD), our teams were called upon to act quickly. What followed was a powerful example of how local expertise, global capabilities, and rapid execution can support clinical and public health responses in the most challenging circumstances.
Background: Understanding the Marburg Virus
Marburg virus disease (MVD), formerly known as Marburg haemorrhagic fever, is a rare but severe illness with a high fatality rate. On average, MVD claims around 50% of those infected, with historical outbreaks showing fatality rates ranging from 24% to as high as 88%.
The virus spreads rapidly and can overwhelm healthcare systems if not controlled early. While there are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments, early supportive care, such as rehydration and symptom management, has been shown to significantly improve survival. Community engagement, rapid diagnostics, and well-coordinated clinical response efforts are all essential to containing outbreaks and limiting their impact.
On 14 November 2025, the Ethiopia Ministry of Health officially reported the country’s first Marburg outbreak, triggering an urgent international response.
The Challenge: A Time-Critical Request
In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, Oximio was contacted by the African Disease Division of a large Contract Research Organisation (CRO). They required an urgent delivery of ancillary supplies to support outbreak control efforts. Time was critical. Any delay could hinder frontline response activities during a fast-moving public health emergency.
The responsibility fell to our Kenya-based team, who were tasked with sourcing, preparing, and mobilising the required supplies in the shortest possible timeframe, all whilst under intense pressure and with no margin for error.
Our Response: Agility in Action
Despite the urgency, our teams rose to the challenge. Through seamless coordination, decisive action, and deep regional expertise, the order was completed in under 48 hours and made ready for shipment.
In an outbreak response scenario, this speed is not just impressive, it’s essential. The successful execution demonstrated our ability to operate with agility while maintaining the high standards required in clinical trial and public health supply chains.
The client later shared their sincere appreciation for the exceptional responsiveness and service delivered, reinforcing the trust placed in our teams when it matters most.
Conclusion: Trusted Support When It Matters Most
This case highlights our commitment to supporting clinical trials and public health initiatives across Africa, even in the most demanding circumstances. From rapid mobilisation to reliable execution, our teams continue to demonstrate collaboration, resilience, and dedication to our mission.
To find out how our African-based operations can support your clinical trial and outbreak response needs, please visit our website or contact us to discuss your requirements. We’d be happy to help.
