Kenya has confirmed four new cases of Ebola, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to seven, including the first patient who died, as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the outbreak.
The Ministry of Health announced the new infections on Saturday, October 17, 2026, revealing that all four patients had developed fever before testing positive for the deadly virus.
The newly confirmed cases include a close male relative of the deceased patient and three health workers who attended to him while he was receiving treatment in hospital.
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In a statement signed by Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth, the Ministry confirmed the increase in infections, saying, “This brings the total number of confirmed cases to seven (7), including the deceased first case.”
Health Workers Among New Cases
According to the Ministry of Health, the male relative of the deceased patient had been in quarantine since October 6, while the three health workers were placed under quarantine on October 9.
The health workers, comprising two men and one woman aged 29, 35 and 32, respectively, had attended to the first patient between October 3 and October 4 before being isolated as part of measures to prevent further transmission.
The four patients tested positive at both the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) laboratory.
Kenya uses a two-laboratory testing process to confirm Ebola infections, with samples examined at both facilities to verify positive results.
The patients are currently receiving supportive care at designated treatment facilities. Health authorities have also indicated that some of the earlier patients are stable and responding well to treatment.
Government Says Risk to Public Remains Low
Despite the increase in confirmed infections, the Ministry of Health has reassured Kenyans that the risk to the general public remains low.
The government attributed the early identification of the new cases to contact tracing and quarantine measures, noting that all four patients were already isolated when their infections were confirmed.
This, according to health officials, has helped reduce the risk of further transmission to family members and the wider community.
“The Ministry wishes to reassure Kenyans that the risk to the general public remains low as there is no evidence of community transmission of the disease,” Amoth said.
Health authorities are continuing to monitor individuals who may have come into contact with confirmed cases as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.
No Travel or Trade Restrictions Announced
The government has maintained that Kenya remains open for business despite the newly confirmed infections.
According to the Ministry, no restrictions have been imposed on travel, trade or public gatherings in response to the outbreak.
Authorities are, however, urging the public to remain vigilant, follow official health guidance and promptly seek medical attention if symptoms associated with Ebola develop.
How Ebola Spreads and Symptoms to Watch For
Ebola is a serious viral disease that spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, or the body of someone who has died from the disease. It is not transmitted through the air under ordinary circumstances.
Common symptoms include fever, unusual tiredness, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. Symptoms may initially resemble those of other illnesses, making prompt medical assessment important, particularly for people who may have been exposed to a confirmed case.
The Ministry of Health has advised anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention or call the toll-free health line 719 for guidance.
As surveillance and contact tracing continue, health officials are urging Kenyans to rely on official Ministry of Health updates and avoid spreading unverified information about the outbreak.
The government says early detection, isolation of suspected cases and cooperation with public health teams remain essential in preventing further transmission.
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