Ebola contacts rise to 57 as Kenya intensifies tracing Efforts

Kenya has identified 57 contacts linked to the country’s first confirmed imported Ebola case, as health authorities intensify efforts to trace and monitor those who may have been exposed to the virus.

The Ministry of Health said the number of contacts had increased from the initial 55 after two additional people were identified.

Of the 57 contacts, 10 have so far been accounted for and placed under quarantine. They are undergoing daily symptom monitoring at the National Police Service Hospital in Nairobi.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said efforts to trace the remaining contacts had been intensified as the government moves to prevent further transmission of the disease.

Kenya reported its first confirmed imported Ebola case on October 6, 2026. The case was identified and diagnosed by health workers at Nairobi Hospital in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

The patient subsequently died, and the Ministry, working with the Kenya Red Cross Society, conducted a safe and dignified burial in accordance with established public health protocols.

The government has designated five health facilities to manage Ebola cases, providing an initial capacity of 241 beds.

They are Kenyatta National Hospital, with eight beds; Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, 50 beds; National Police Hospital, 49 beds; Portreitz Hospital, four beds; and Nairobi Hospital, which has 130 beds.

Duale said the capacity would be increased through the establishment of additional facilities if the situation evolves.

Five facilities have also been designated as temporary isolation centres for suspected cases, while Alupe Sub-District Hospital in Busia County is undergoing renovations to enable it to manage Ebola cases.

Screening of travellers from the Ebola disease epicentre has also been enhanced at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Gate 16, as well as at all points of entry.

The Ministry has urged Kenyans to remain calm and vigilant, practise strict hand hygiene and avoid contact with people showing symptoms of illness.

The public has also been advised to immediately report suspected cases or possible exposure to health authorities and seek care at recognised health facilities when unwell.

Duale urged Kenyans to obtain information through official Ministry of Health platforms and use the toll-free line 719 for guidance.

“The Ministry of Health is committed to protecting the public against public health threats and will continue to update the public on measures that the government is putting in place to mitigate the spread of the disease,” Duale said.

So far America and UK have issued travel advisories following the news of the death.