Kenya Confirms First Imported Ebola Case

Kenya has confirmed its first imported case of Ebola involving a Kenyan citizen who had travelled from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The patient was admitted to a hospital in Nairobi after developing symptoms consistent with a viral haemorrhagic fever and later died. The Ministry of Health has placed the country on high alert and activated response measures as authorities work to prevent possible transmission.

Patient Presented With Ebola Symptoms

The patient presented at the East Wing isolation facility with fever, chills, intense fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, painful swallowing and a sore throat. Health officials also noted bleeding under the skin at injection sites. In view of the symptoms and the patient’s recent travel from the DRC, medical teams treated the case as a suspected viral haemorrhagic fever and activated the required preparedness measures.

Government Strengthens Surveillance The Ministry says Kenya has maintained heightened surveillance at points of entry since the Ebola outbreak began in May 2026. By October 6, authorities had screened 652,584 Travellers for the disease. A total of 4,971 healthcare workers at national and county levels have also been trained on Ebola prevention and management. The government says isolation and quarantine arrangements are in place, including a specialised facility equipped with intensive care and high-dependency units and more than 145 beds for patients requiring specialised care.

Duale Urges Kenyans to Remain Calm

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has urged Kenyans not to panic, assuring the public that systems are in place to detect and contain the disease. The Ministry is urging members of the public to maintain basic hygiene measures, including frequent handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand rubs. Kenyans have also been advised to avoid close contact with sick people arriving from countries experiencing active Ebola transmission and to seek medical attention at recognised health facilities when unwell. Healthcare workers have been directed to maintain strict infection prevention and control measures regardless of the illness being treated.

Ministry Provides Public Information Channels

The Ministry of Health has urged Kenyans to rely on official sources for information and updates on the outbreak. The public can access updates through the Ministry’s official social media platforms or call the 719 toll-free line for health information. Authorities are continuing surveillance and preparedness measures as Kenya responds to the confirmed imported case.