Kenya confirms second Ebola case

Kenya has announced a second case of Ebola, following the detection of its first imported case on October 6, 2026. The patient, a 39-year-old man, is a close relative of the initial patient and was under quarantine when he began displaying symptoms on October 13, 2026. Upon developing fever, fatigue, and joint pain, he was isolated and tested, with the results confirming Ebola at both the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)-CDC laboratory.

The patient is now receiving treatment at a specialized facility. Health officials emphasized that early detection, due to quarantine measures, significantly improves the patient's chances of recovery and reduces the risk of transmission to the community. Kenya has recorded a total of two confirmed Ebola cases and one death. The Ministry of Health has identified 128 contacts to the first case, with 108 currently in quarantine in Kenya.

Efforts are ongoing to trace an additional 15 contacts. Kenya remains open, with no travel, trade, or public gathering restrictions, as infection prevention and control measures have been strengthened at quarantine and treatment facilities. The public is advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, extreme fatigue, muscle or joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding.