Nairobi:Kenya has confirmed its first imported case of Ebola (Bundibugyo) virus disease following the death of a Kenyan citizen who had been living in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for seven years. The individual died while receiving treatment in Nairobi.
According to Kenya News Agency, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale reported that the patient had fallen ill in the DRC about a month ago and received treatment at several health facilities there before traveling by road to Kampala and then flying to Nairobi. The patient arrived aboard Jambo Jet flight 8523 and underwent routine public health screening at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The patient was taken to a Nairobi hospital directly from the airport by a relative and a friend, where he was isolated after showing symptoms such as fever, chills, intense fatigue, muscle pain, and bleeding under the skin. Tests conducted at the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute confirmed the presence of the Bundibugyo Ebola virus.
Despite being placed on supportive treatment, the patient passed away last night. Arrangements for a safe and dignified burial are currently being prepared. Health authorities have identified 28 contacts, including family members and health workers, who are being monitored. Efforts are also underway to trace and quarantine the 23 passengers and four crew members who shared the flight with the deceased.
Kenya has been on high alert for Ebola since the outbreak began in May 2026, screening over 652,000 travelers and testing 267 samples across several laboratories. Only one sample has tested positive.
The Ministry of Health has trained nearly 5,000 health workers on Ebola prevention and management and informed the World Health Organization of the confirmed case. Duale reassured the public that measures are in place to manage the disease and advised continued vigilance in hygiene practices. Health workers have been reminded to maintain strict infection prevention and control measures.
