Accra:The country has confirmed a second case of Ebola, specifically the Bundibugyo Virus Disease, as health authorities emphasize the effectiveness of contact tracing and quarantine measures in early detection of infections.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Ministry of Health reported that the patient, a 39-year-old man and a close family member of the initial case, showed symptoms including fever, fatigue, and joint pains on October 13 while under quarantine. He was isolated immediately, and tests conducted at the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)-CDC laboratory confirmed the presence of the virus.
The patient is now receiving supportive care at a designated treatment center. Kenya has thus far recorded two confirmed Ebola cases and one death. Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director-General for Health, highlighted that the prompt detection of this second case underscores the critical role of quarantine and daily monitoring in managing the outbreak.
Dr. Amoth noted that both cases are connected, with no signs of wider community transmission. Authorities have identified 128 contacts of the first patient, with 113 traced by October 13. Of these, 108 are in quarantine, undergoing daily assessments and temperature monitoring for 21 days. The remaining five contacts are abroad, and relevant health authorities have been notified per the International Health Regulations (2005).
Efforts continue to trace the other 15 contacts, while health teams are working to identify and manage anyone who has interacted with the second patient. Those who exhibit symptoms will be isolated and tested without delay.
Infection prevention measures have been reinforced at quarantine and treatment sites, and health workers have been equipped with protective gear. Dr. Amoth advised health professionals to maintain stringent infection control practices regardless of the cases they handle.
The response is coordinated under a national command structure guided by the Public Health (Declaration of Formidable Epidemic Disease) Order, 2026, and the Public Health (Ebola Disease) Rules, 2026. The outbreak has been reported to the World Health Organization in line with international standards.
Kenya remains open, with no travel, trade, or public gathering restrictions. The public is urged to stay alert and seek medical advice promptly if they experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle or joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding. Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person.
The Ministry also called on the public to respect the privacy of the affected family, rely on official updates, and use the toll-free number 719 for information.
