Kenya has not recorded any confirmed Ebola cases, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has announced, following the testing of 18 suspected samples that all returned negative results.Speaking during an update on the country’s disease surveillance efforts, Muthoni reassured Kenyans that there is currently no Ebola outbreak in the country.
The samples were collected from individuals who had shown symptoms or raised alerts in various parts of the country. After thorough laboratory testing, all 18 samples tested negative for the deadly viral disease.Despite the encouraging results, the Ministry of Health has intensified preparedness measures after identifying 25 counties as being at risk of Ebola due to their strategic locations, movement of people, and cross-border interactions.
Among them, Nairobi and Mombasa have been listed among the counties considered to be at the highest risk.Muthoni said the government is not taking any chances and has strengthened surveillance systems across the country.
Health workers have been placed on high alert, while screening and monitoring activities have been enhanced at airports, border points, and health facilities.The Principal Secretary noted that Kenya’s public health teams are working closely with county governments and international health partners to ensure the country remains prepared to respond quickly should any suspected case emerge. She added that laboratories remain ready to conduct testing whenever necessary.
The Ministry has also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and observe basic health precautions, including regular handwashing and reporting any unusual illness to the nearest health facility. Citizens have been encouraged to rely on information from official government sources and avoid spreading unverified reports that may cause unnecessary panic.
The latest update comes amid increased regional concern over Ebola outbreaks reported in some parts of Africa, prompting neighboring countries to strengthen disease surveillance and preparedness measures.While Kenya remains free of Ebola, health authorities say continued vigilance is necessary to protect the population and prevent the possible importation of the disease.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health through early detection, rapid response, and continuous monitoring of potential health threats.
