By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, June 06, 2026 - The Ministry of Health has heightened Ebola preparedness and response measures at key border entry points, including Malaba and Busia, following reported cases of the disease in neighbouring Uganda.
Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said the government has strengthened surveillance, screening, laboratory testing, and public awareness efforts to prevent the importation and spread of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) into Kenya.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the Malaba border post and later at the Busia One Stop Border Post, Muthoni reassured Kenyans that the country remains free of Ebola.
She revealed that all 59 suspected Ebola cases investigated in Kenya have tested negative for the virus.
"The Ministry of Health has intensified Ebola preparedness and response measures at the Malaba border following reported cases in neighbouring Uganda," she said.
According to the PS, the government has enhanced disease surveillance systems and expanded laboratory testing capacity through specialized laboratories in Nairobi and Kisumu to ensure rapid detection and response to any suspected cases.
The ministry has also increased public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities on prevention measures and the importance of seeking timely medical attention.
Muthoni said adequate quarantine facilities have been put in place to ensure that individuals exposed to the disease can be safely isolated while suspected cases are effectively managed.
During her visit to the Busia border post, the PS assessed Ebola preparedness measures, traveller screening procedures, and surveillance systems being implemented by health and border authorities.
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She emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, strict adherence to public health protocols, and stronger coordination among agencies operating at border points.
"We are keen on strengthening vigilance, ensuring strict adherence to public health protocols, and enhancing inter-agency coordination to prevent the importation and spread of Ebola," she said.
The government, she added, remains committed to strengthening border health security while ensuring that cross-border trade and movement continue safely.
Muthoni also commended healthcare workers, border officials, and partner organizations for their role in strengthening disease surveillance, early detection, and emergency response capacity.
The Ministry of Health has urged members of the public to observe proper hygiene practices, avoid spreading misinformation, and rely on verified updates from official government communication channels.
Ebola is a severe viral disease that spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and can cause serious illness and death if not detected and managed early. Health authorities continue to monitor the regional situation closely as part of ongoing preparedness efforts.