Health officials say the 65-year-old relative of the first two patients is receiving care, while teams continue tracing three outstanding contacts.
Kenya has confirmed its third Ebola case after a 65-year-old woman tested positive while in quarantine. The Ministry of Health says the overall public health risk remains low, with no evidence of community transmission.
Director General for Health Patrick Amoth identified the woman as a close relative and primary contact of the first two patients. She had been in quarantine since October 6, 2026, before developing fever, a sore throat and general body weakness.
Third Ebola case confirmed through laboratory tests
In an October 16 update, Amoth said health teams isolated the woman after she developed symptoms. Tests at the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute confirmed Ebola, also known as Bundibugyo Virus Disease.
The patient is now receiving supportive care at an Infectious Disease Unit, the ministry said. Because she developed symptoms while already in quarantine, the ministry expects a lower risk of further community transmission.
Health teams quarantine 127 contacts
Meanwhile, health teams have traced and placed 127 of the 130 identified contacts under quarantine, Amoth said. That represents 97.7 per cent of identified contacts, exceeding the ministry’s cited benchmark of 85 per cent.
However, teams are still working to locate the remaining three contacts as authorities strengthen surveillance and containment measures.
The government has also distributed personal protective equipment and infection prevention and control supplies. The distribution covers all 28 high-risk counties and points of entry, and includes public health screening equipment.
Airports step up screening as travel remains open
At international airports, Kenya has intensified screening for travellers arriving from 10 high-risk countries. These travellers must complete a digital surveillance form before boarding and present a QR code on arrival.
The ministry said enhanced airport screening had covered 685,027 people since the outbreak began in May 2026. Despite the confirmed cases, Kenya remains open for business, with no restrictions on travel, trade or public gatherings.
Ministry urges prompt reporting of symptoms
Health authorities continue to urge people to follow preventive measures and report suspected symptoms promptly. Ebola spreads through direct contact with blood or other body fluids from an infected person who is sick or has died. It does not spread through the air.
Warning signs include fever, unusual tiredness, muscle or joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek urgent attention at the nearest health facility or call the ministry’s toll-free number, 719.
