Ruto issues fresh orders after Kenya first Ebola patient dies

President William Ruto has issued fresh directives following Kenya's first Ebola case, which resulted in the death of a patient arriving from abroad. On October 6, 2026, the President directed the National Security Council Committee (NSCC) to convene and evaluate the situation, with a recommendation for additional measures to prevent potential spread.

In response to the imported Ebola case, eight relatives of the deceased have been placed under quarantine, along with 21 healthcare workers who treated the patient. Furthermore, 27 passengers from the same flight have undergone screening, with appropriate public health measures initiated. The deceased has been buried in line with Ebola public health protocols.

Since ramping up Ebola surveillance, Kenya has screened 652,584 travelers and tested 267 samples across five laboratories, including the National Virology Reference Laboratory (NVRL), KEMRI Nairobi, KEMRI Kisumu, and two mobile labs in Busia and Bungoma counties. Only the deceased's sample tested positive for Ebola.

The government has trained 4,971 healthcare workers nationwide on Ebola prevention, detection, and management. Suspected and confirmed Ebola cases can be managed at Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, National Police Hospital, and The Nairobi Hospital, with additional county isolation centers available as needed. Surveillance and rapid response teams are already active, building upon preparedness systems established since Kenya's Ebola response began in May 2026.

The government urges Kenyans to remain calm while maintaining vigilance, advises strict hand hygiene, and discourages contact with individuals displaying Ebola symptoms. Anyone experiencing such symptoms, especially after possible exposure, is advised to seek medical guidance from recognized health facilities.