The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) have raised concerns that pharmacies could be among the first points of contact for people with early symptoms of Ebola. This warning comes after Kenya confirmed one Ebola case, prompting the health bodies to call for vigilance from health workers and the public. The KMA has urged health workers to screen every patient for travel history and isolate suspected cases immediately.
The KMA has also called for the government to provide adequate Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) personal protective equipment to health facilities nationwide. The association emphasized the importance of early case identification, strict contact tracing, quarantine, and humane isolation. KMA Secretary General Dr. Lyndah Kemunto stressed that any health worker exposed without protection should report the incident immediately without waiting for laboratory results.
The PSK has warned pharmacists and other pharmacy workers to maintain a high level of vigilance because patients with early symptoms may seek advice, treatment, or medicines before reaching a health facility. The society noted that pharmacies are among the most accessible points of contact with the health system. PSK has urged pharmacists to maintain a high index of suspicion among patients with fever or a history of fever, marked weakness or fatigue, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or other concerning symptoms.
The PSK has also asked pharmacies to brief everyone working at the premises, including pharmaceutical technologists, administrative staff, and support teams, on what to do when they encounter a suspected Ebola case. The society further warned health workers against sharing names, photographs, travel details, or unverified information about suspected cases on social media. Patient confidentiality must be protected as health teams respond to the Ebola threat.
The KMA has urged people under quarantine to comply with Ministry of Health guidelines and called on the public to report suspected cases early. The association has also called for strict procedures when putting on and removing protective equipment. Health workers have been advised to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to the relevant authorities.
The warnings from health bodies come as Kenya continues to respond to the Ebola threat. The country has confirmed one Ebola case, and there are concerns that more cases may be reported. The government has been urged to take swift action to prevent the spread of the disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also been involved in the response efforts, providing support to Kenya and other affected countries.
The health bodies have reiterated the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of the Ebola threat. They have called for a collaborative effort from the government, health workers, and the public to prevent the spread of the disease. The KMA and PSK will continue to work with the government and other stakeholders to respond to the Ebola threat and protect the health of Kenyans.
Key points
- The Kenya Medical Association and Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya have warned that pharmacies could be among the first points of contact for people with early symptoms of Ebola.
- The health bodies have called for the government to provide adequate Ebola Virus Disease personal protective equipment to health facilities nationwide.
- The KMA and PSK have urged health workers and the public to be vigilant and report suspected cases early to prevent the spread of the disease.
