The Ministry of Health has issued public precautions following the confirmed outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus disease in Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The Ministry also confirmed that the laboratory testing in the DRC confirmed the Ebola virus in 13 out of 20 samples tested.
On May 15, 2026, authorities in the DRC had reported 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, including four deaths confirmed through lab tests.
The Ministry of Health emphasised that Kenya has not recorded any Ebola cases as of May 16, 2026, but acknowledged a moderate risk of importation into the country.
Following the outbreak of the virus in the DR Congo, the government has called on members of the public to remain calm but vigilant.
It has also urged individuals to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick individuals, refrain from handling sick or dead animals, and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with Ebola.
Kenyans have also been warned against spreading unverified information that could cause panic.
In response to the matter, the government has now called on Kenyans to rely on official updates from recognised health authorities.
The government has further activated enhanced response measures across the country, including the formation of a National Ebola Preparedness Team to coordinate emergency readiness activities.
Ministry of Health officials have also intensified surveillance for viral haemorrhagic fevers, strengthened screening at airports and border points, and enhanced laboratory preparedness and diagnostic capacity.
It has further stated that it is working closely with international and regional health organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), to monitor the evolving situation.
