The national government has directed all county governments to immediately strengthen Ebola surveillance and emergency preparedness measures following a confirmed outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and an imported case reported in neighbouring Uganda.
The directive comes amid growing concern among health authorities over the possibility of cross-border transmission within the East African region due to increased movement of people and goods. Counties have now been instructed to enhance disease monitoring systems, activate rapid response teams, and improve preparedness at health facilities to ensure any suspected cases are detected and managed quickly.
Health officials say county governments are expected to intensify screening and public awareness campaigns, especially in border regions and major transport corridors. Surveillance officers have also been urged to remain alert and report any suspected Ebola-related symptoms immediately to national health authorities for further action.
Authorities noted that while Kenya has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case, precautionary measures remain critical due to the country’s regional connectivity and movement between neighbouring states. The government emphasised that preparedness remains the most effective way of preventing the spread of the highly infectious disease should it cross into the country.
County health departments have also been asked to assess the readiness of isolation facilities, medical supplies, and emergency response systems. Health workers are expected to receive updated guidance on handling suspected Ebola cases, including infection prevention and patient management protocols aimed at reducing exposure risks within hospitals and communities.
The latest alert follows confirmation of an Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC, an area that has previously battled recurring outbreaks of the disease. The imported case reported in Uganda has further heightened concern among regional health agencies, prompting neighbouring countries to tighten surveillance and preparedness measures.
Public health experts have urged Kenyans not to panic but instead cooperate with health officials and remain vigilant. Residents have been encouraged to report individuals showing symptoms associated with Ebola, including fever, weakness, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding, particularly if they recently travelled from affected areas.
The government maintained that ongoing monitoring and coordination between national and county authorities will continue as the situation develops across the region. Officials say Kenya’s health sector has experience handling infectious disease threats and remains committed to protecting the public through early detection and swift response measures.
Authorities are expected to issue further updates as regional surveillance efforts continue and more information becomes available regarding the outbreak.
