Addis Ababa - Health authorities in southern Ethiopia are investigating a suspected outbreak of viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF) after several people, including healthcare workers, reportedly fell ill and died in recent days.

According to preliminary reports, at least eight suspected cases have been identified in the South Omo zone, located near Ethiopia’s border with South Sudan — an area of strategic concern due to its porous borders and frequent population movement.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it had deployed eleven technical officers to assist with the investigation and response. The agency has also delivered personal protective equipment, established isolation capacities, and released emergency funds to bolster Ethiopia’s containment efforts.

“Early detection and containment are absolutely vital to prevent further spread,” a WHO official familiar with the response told The New York Times. “We are working closely with national and regional health authorities to confirm the pathogen and limit transmission.”

Viral haemorrhagic fevers — a group of severe infectious diseases that includes Ebola, Marburg, and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever — are known for their high fatality rates and potential for rapid spread in fragile health systems. The nature of the current pathogen remains unconfirmed, with laboratory analyses underway at national reference laboratories.

Health experts warn that the outbreak’s proximity to South Sudan raises the risk of cross-border transmission, which could complicate containment efforts if not swiftly managed. WHO and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health have reportedly activated emergency response mechanisms and are tracing contacts of suspected cases.

The situation remains fluid as health officials await test results to identify the exact cause of the illness. Depending on the findings, authorities may impose targeted public-health measures such as quarantine zones or travel restrictions.

International health partners have expressed readiness to support Ethiopia should the outbreak escalate.