Kenya has stepped up measures to contain Ebola through enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing and screening at points of entry as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further transmission of the virus.
According to the Ministry of Health, the response also includes infection prevention and control, community engagement and public risk communication to strengthen preparedness and ensure suspected cases are identified and managed promptly.
The Ministry has warned Kenyans that early Ebola symptoms can resemble those of malaria and other common illnesses, making it important for people to seek medical attention when symptoms develop, particularly if they may have been exposed to the virus.
Early symptoms typically appear between two and 21 days after infection and include fever, tiredness and weakness, muscle pain, headache and a sore throat.
As the disease progresses, patients may develop vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, impaired kidney and liver function, and bleeding.
The Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases promptly rather than dismissing symptoms as ordinary illnesses.
Members of the public seeking more information or wishing to report suspected Ebola cases have been advised to contact the Ministry of Health through its toll-free hotline, 719, dial *719#, or chat with Jali on WhatsApp through 0700 719 719.
The Ministry continues to emphasise the importance of public awareness, timely reporting and cooperation with health officials as part of the country’s containment efforts.
Kenyans have been encouraged to rely on official health information and follow guidance issued by the Ministry to support efforts to prevent further spread of the virus.
