Wetangula Urges Kenya-Uganda Border Residents to Remain Alert Over Ebola

Bungoma County in Kenya is urging residents to stay vigilant over the recent importation of the first Ebola case into the country. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula addressed the issue during a women's empowerment event in Bungoma, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness along the Kenya-Uganda border. The first case was confirmed on October 6 when a Kenyan man, who had previously lived in the Democratic Republic of Congo and traveled through Uganda, was diagnosed with Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease.

The patient passed away on October 3, prompting public health officials to intensify screening and surveillance measures.

Wetangula highlighted the county's proximity to Uganda as a key factor in the heightened alert level, stressing that while there is no immediate cause for concern about the virus spreading within Kenya, residents must continue to follow health guidelines to prevent any potential outbreak. He urged the public to cooperate with the authorities conducting health checks at border points, including Malaba, as the Ministry of Health has stepped up screening efforts.

The government has established temporary isolation centers at Malaba and Kocholia, with further renovations planned at Alupe, to manage and protect against the virus.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale reassured the public that Kenya is not currently experiencing an Ebola outbreak, despite the imported case. The Ministry of Health has also identified key screening locations, such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where travelers arriving from outbreak-affected regions are being monitored more closely.

The National Assembly Speaker encouraged truck drivers to be prioritized in screening routines due to their frequent cross-border movements, particularly those traveling from the DRC and Uganda.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka echoed Wetangula's sentiments, detailing the county's collaborative efforts with national authorities to strengthen disease surveillance and public awareness. He noted that the county government is actively working alongside the national health department to screen individuals traveling into Kenya from Uganda and to educate the public on preventive measures against Ebola.

President William Ruto's aide, Farouk Kibet, also emphasized the importance of caution, especially for women who frequently interact with truck drivers, urging them to take necessary precautions to protect their health. The Ministry of Health has advised the public to avoid direct contact with anyone displaying symptoms of the disease.