The Kenyan Ministry of Health confirmed the country's first imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease on October 6. The deceased, a Kenyan citizen, had lived in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for seven years and had been unwell for about a month. The patient sought treatment at several hospitals in the DRC before returning to Kenya.
According to the Ministry, the patient traveled by road to Kampala, Uganda, and then boarded Jambo Jet flight 8523 to Nairobi. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on October 3, the patient underwent routine public health screening. He was then taken to Nairobi Hospital by a relative and friend, where medical personnel immediately isolated him.
The patient presented with symptoms including fever, chills, severe fatigue, muscle pain, painful swallowing, sore throat, and bleeding beneath the skin at injection sites. Clinicians suspected a viral haemorrhagic fever and collected samples for testing. Laboratory analysis at the National Virology Reference Laboratory and KEMRI confirmed Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease.
Despite receiving supportive treatment, the patient later succumbed to the illness. The Ministry stated that arrangements for a safe and dignified burial were ongoing, planned for later that day, following Ebola safe and dignified burial protocols. The patient died after arrival at the hospital, indicating a rapid progression of the disease.
Health officials identified 28 close contacts, including family members and healthcare workers, and are tracing an additional 23 passengers and four crew members who traveled on the same flight. Quarantine measures are being implemented for individuals considered at risk. The Ministry has screened over 652,000 travelers since the regional Ebola outbreak began in May 2026.
So far, only one positive case has been detected. Kenyans have been urged to maintain proper hygiene and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with the disease. The Ministry is working to prevent further spread of the disease and ensure public safety.
The Kenyan government, along with international partners, is working to contain the outbreak. The World Health Organization and other global health authorities have been notified, and efforts are underway to provide support and resources to manage the situation. The incident has raised concerns about the potential for further spread of the disease in the region.
Key points
- The patient traveled from DRC via Kampala and died at Nairobi Hospital after being confirmed with Ebola.
- Health officials have identified and are tracing contacts of the deceased to prevent further spread of the disease.
- The Kenyan government has urged citizens to maintain proper hygiene and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
