Kenya has confirmed its second death from Ebola, a rare but deadly virus, as it grapples with the nation’s first outbreak. The deceased, a 65‑year‑old woman, was a close family member of the first victim and died after developing symptoms while under quarantine, the health ministry said.
The first death occurred on 5 October when a man who had travelled from the Democratic Republic of Congo fell ill in September, was treated in several hospitals there, and later died in Nairobi a few days after arriving. Seven other patients are currently receiving treatment at two isolation facilities, all linked to the same cluster and with no evidence of community spread.
Those still in care include three relatives of the first victim, three health workers and a hospital cleaner. Kenya’s health authorities have intensified screening for travellers from high‑risk countries, including DR Congo, Uganda, Ethiopia and Somalia, and are urging the public to report suspected cases promptly.
Internationally, the United States has warned its citizens against travelling to Kenya, while neighbouring countries remain on alert. The outbreak has also drawn attention from Nigeria, whose sole confirmed case is genetically linked to a strain first identified in Kenya, though no travel connection has yet been established.
Kenya’s response includes enhanced public health messaging, hygiene campaigns, and strict screening of incoming flights. The situation remains under close monitoring as authorities work to contain the spread.
