Kenya: WHO Urges Vigilance After Kenya Confirms Second Ebola Case

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for heightened vigilance in Kenya following the confirmation of a second Ebola case. The patient, a 39-year-old man, is a relative of the first case - who died in October - and was among contacts placed in quarantine. WHO Representative Dr. Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo praised the government's efforts to identify and quarantine contacts, but emphasized that everyone has a role to play in containing the disease.

She urged Kenyans to practice regular handwashing, use hand sanitizer, and seek medical care promptly if symptoms arise. Kenya's first Ebola patient died in October, having travelled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) where the outbreak continues. The WHO and Kenyan government have been working on Ebola preparedness since the DRC outbreak began in May, including training over 4,000 health workers and providing medical supplies worth $70,000.

While there is no need to impose travel restrictions, Kimambo stressed the importance of appropriate screening to identify travellers who may pose a health risk. She urged Kenyans to remain calm, take necessary precautions, and seek medical care if needed.