Kenya Records Four New Ebola Cases, Total Rises To Seven

Kenya has confirmed four additional cases of Ebola Virus Disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus, bringing the total number of infections recorded in the country to seven, including one death.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) disclosed this in a statement published on its website, noting that the latest infections were detected among individuals already under quarantine after exposure to the initial case.

The newly confirmed cases involve three healthcare workers and a family member. All four are receiving supportive care at a designated treatment facility.

Africa CDC said the development underscored the importance of effective contact tracing, surveillance and prompt isolation in containing the outbreak and preventing further transmission.

The agency commended the Kenyan government, particularly the Ministry of Health and national public health institutions, for their response efforts and transparent communication.

According to Africa CDC, Kenyan authorities have traced and quarantined 128 of the 130 identified contacts, representing 98.5 per cent, while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining two.

The Kenyan Ministry of Health has reported no evidence of community transmission at this stage.

Africa CDC said it was working with the Kenyan government and its partners to strengthen surveillance, provide technical coordination, improve risk communication and support community engagement.

The agency also stressed the need for stronger regional preparedness in view of the evolving Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo).

It said cross-border surveillance, timely information sharing, early detection and coordinated public health interventions remained critical to preventing the spread of the disease across the region.

Africa CDC further warned of the risks faced by healthcare workers treating infected patients, emphasising the need for strict infection prevention and control measures, adequate protective equipment, proper training and sustained support for frontline personnel.

The agency urged residents to remain vigilant, comply with public health advisories and promptly report symptoms to health authorities.

“Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person, or through contaminated materials,” the agency said, adding that early detection and access to appropriate care could improve survival chances and reduce further transmission.

It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Kenyan government, healthcare workers and affected communities, stressing that sustained vigilance, public trust and coordinated action were essential to containing the outbreak.

Members of the public in Kenya seeking information or guidance on the outbreak have been advised to contact the Ministry of Health through its toll-free number, 719, or follow the ministry’s official communication channels.