Nairobi:Kenya is enhancing its surveillance and outbreak control efforts following the confirmation of the country’s first imported case of Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD).
According to Kenya News Agency, the World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting these efforts to ensure effective management of the situation. The case involves a Kenyan citizen who became ill in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), received treatment there, and traveled to Kampala, Uganda, before flying to Nairobi on October 3. Upon arrival, the patient was taken to a hospital, isolated, and tested positive for the virus.
The patient passed away on October 5 and was buried according to Kenya’s Ebola safe and dignified burial protocol. Health authorities have identified 28 contacts, including family and healthcare workers, and are tracing passengers and crew from the same flight. Arrangements are in place for the follow-up and quarantine of those at risk.
WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr. Mohamed Janabi emphasized the importance of Kenya’s preparedness in responding quickly to the virus. He highlighted that rapid and coordinated action is vital to prevent further transmission and urged authorities to continue their efforts.
Kenya notified WHO of the case in line with International Health Regulations, making it the fourth country to confirm BVD. The DRC is managing an outbreak, Uganda ended its latest outbreak in August, and France reported a case in June. Kenya has been on high alert since May due to outbreaks in neighboring countries.
By October 6, Kenya had screened over 652,000 travelers, tested 267 suspected samples, and trained around 5,000 health workers on Ebola prevention and management. WHO has aided the Ministry of Health through various support measures, including simulation exercises, training response teams, and enhancing surveillance in 27 high-risk counties. Additionally, 1,000 Ebola tests and personal protective equipment kits have been supplied.
Kenya’s Ebola preparedness score improved from 66 percent in May to 82 percent in July. WHO has also intensified risk communication through public messaging and media engagement and advised against imposing travel or trade restrictions on Kenya, Uganda, or the DRC based on current information.
Bundibugyo virus disease is a severe illness transmitted through direct contact with infected blood or body fluids. There are no approved vaccines or specific treatments yet, though candidate products are under clinical evaluation.
