Kenya has recorded its second Ebola-related death after a 65-year-old woman, who was the country’s third confirmed case, succumbed to the disease while receiving treatment.
In a press release issued on Friday, October 23, 2026, the Ministry of Health said the woman died earlier in the evening after developing symptoms while under quarantine.
The woman was a direct contact and close family member of Kenya’s first Ebola patient, who also died from the disease. She developed symptoms on October 13 and was admitted to an infectious disease unit the same day, where she received supportive care from medical teams.
The Ministry said healthcare workers had made every effort to save her life but she eventually succumbed to the virus.
The latest fatality brings the number of deaths to two among nine confirmed Ebola cases reported in the country, with the remaining seven patients receiving treatment in two isolation facilities.
According to the Ministry, all confirmed cases remain within one cluster of known contacts, with no evidence of community transmission reported so far.
The woman’s family has been formally informed of her death, with the government extending condolences to her relatives, friends and the wider community.
The Ministry said it was working with the family to facilitate a safe and dignified burial in accordance with established public health protocols. Trained teams will conduct the burial while respecting the family’s wishes and beliefs and ensuring measures are in place to prevent further infections.
Health authorities have urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and continue observing public health measures as efforts to contain the outbreak continue.
Members of the public have been advised to avoid contact with the blood and other body fluids of anyone who is sick. They have also been warned against touching or handling the body of a person who has died following a suspected illness.
Kenyans have been urged to wash their hands regularly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms associated with Ebola.
These include fever, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding.
Anyone experiencing the symptoms has been advised to call the Ministry of Health’s toll-free hotline on 719 or contact its WhatsApp chatbot on 0700 719 719 for assistance.
Director-General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth warned that Ebola is a serious disease that can be fatal and that a patient’s condition can deteriorate suddenly, underscoring the importance of early reporting and medical intervention.
The Ministry appealed to the public to cooperate with health officials, support affected families and respect their privacy as the country continues efforts to contain the outbreak.
