Omanghana
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, has reassured the public that the country is managing an imported Ebola case rather than a local outbreak, as authorities intensify contact tracing following a patient’s death.
Speaking during a visit to Nairobi Hospital’s 133-bed Ebola isolation unit on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, Duale said health officials were strengthening surveillance and preparedness to prevent further transmission.
The patient was a Kenyan national who had lived in the Democratic Republic of Congo for seven years. He travelled through Uganda before flying to Nairobi, where he was admitted to hospital and subsequently died. His journey has raised questions about how he passed through border and airport screening while unwell.
Authorities have identified 57 contacts linked to the case. Ten have been traced and placed under quarantine at the National Police Service Hospital in Nairobi, where they are undergoing daily monitoring. Efforts to locate and follow up with the remaining contacts are continuing.
The government has designated five hospitals to isolate and treat suspected or confirmed cases: Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, the National Police Service Hospital, Port Reitz Hospital and Nairobi Hospital.
Screening has also been intensified at entry points, including Gate 16 at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Temporary isolation facilities have been identified at Malaba and Kocholia, while renovations are underway at Alupe.
Duale said Kenya was working with neighboring countries and international health partners on surveillance, information sharing and preparedness. He urged the public to remain vigilant and rely on official updates.
The Ministry of Health has advised anyone concerned about possible exposure or symptoms to seek prompt medical guidance. Its toll-free information line, 719, is available for advice.
Source: Omanghana
