Kenya confirms nine Ebola cases, all so far linked to the first patient
Kenya is dealing with its first ever Ebola outbreak, with nine confirmed cases all linked to a first patient who arrived from DR Congo. The government says the situation is under control, but doctors warn of gaps in border screening and in protecting health workers.
Kenya, in East Africa, has recorded its first ever Ebola outbreak, with nine cases confirmed so far. The first patient was a Kenyan businessman who travelled from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and died two weeks ago. The other eight infected people are four of his relatives, three health workers and a hospital cleaner, so all are linked to him. Concern is growing that the virus could spread further, and the US has advised its citizens to reconsider travel to Kenya.
What is known about the outbreak
Ebola was confirmed in DR Congo in May. Since then more than 4,000 people have died and cases exceed 9,500, making it the second most deadly outbreak of the disease. It is caused by the relatively rare Bundibugyo species, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment, though trials are under way. Kenyans have asked how the first patient could spend time in the worst-affected region and travel through two more countries before his illness was identified.
Government response
Health Director-General Patrick Amoth said the eight living patients are improving and responding well to treatment. Of the 135 contacts of the first patient, 134 remain in quarantine, and none showed symptoms before being isolated. Travellers from ten high-risk countries must complete a digital form before boarding and show a QR code on arrival. Treatment and isolation facilities have been designated, a dedicated laboratory has been set up at Kenyatta National Hospital, nearly 5,000 health workers have been trained, and a toll-free hotline, 719, is available. The International Rescue Committee says the fact that all cases link back to the first patient shows the early response is working.
Criticism and restrictions
Kenya's doctors' union points to lapses at borders and the main airport, understaffing, and a need for better protective equipment in hospitals. Kenya has not imposed travel, trade or gathering restrictions, and no country has banned visits to Kenya. Neighbours including Somalia, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Uganda have tightened surveillance.
