Sana’a — Health Minister in Yemen have announced heightened alert measures to confront the possible spread of the Marburg virus through fruit bats migrating from Africa, amid growing regional concerns over the deadly pathogen.

Officials said surveillance teams have been instructed to monitor bat populations and strengthen early detection systems, particularly in areas where fruit bats are known to roost near human settlements. The Ministry of Health emphasized that the precautionary steps are aimed at preventing any potential outbreak, given the virus’s high fatality rate and its history of cross-border transmission.

Local sources noted that the alert includes coordination with international health agencies to track bat migration patterns and ensure rapid response capabilities. Public awareness campaigns are also being prepared to inform communities about the risks of exposure and the importance of reporting unusual health symptoms.

The Marburg virus, a rare but highly infectious disease similar to Ebola, has previously caused outbreaks in several African countries. Experts warn that its spread through bat populations poses a serious risk to regions with fragile health systems, such as Yemen, where conflict has already weakened medical infrastructure.

Humanitarian observers say Yemen’s proactive stance reflects broader fears of zoonotic diseases crossing into conflict zones, where containment and treatment capacities are limited. The raised alert is intended to reassure the public while mobilizing resources to guard against a potential health emergency.