The Ministry of Health has issued public precautions following the confirmed outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus disease in Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

According to the Ministry, laboratory testing in the DRC confirmed the Ebola virus in 13 out of 20 samples tested, with preliminary findings suggesting the outbreak involves a non-Zaire ebolavirus strain.

As of May 15, 2026, authorities in the DRC had reported 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, including four deaths confirmed through lab tests.

Nonetheless, the Ministry of Health emphasised that Kenya has not recorded any Ebola cases as of May 16, 2026 , but acknowledged a moderate risk of importation into the country.

📌 What You Need to Know

Following the outbreak of the virus in the DR Congo, the government has called on members of the public to remain calm but vigilant.

The Ministry urged individuals to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick individuals, refrain from handling sick or dead animals, and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with Ebola.

Kenyans have also been warned against spreading unverified information that could cause panic, with the government calling on Kenyans to only rely on official updates from recognised health authorities.

In response to the outbreak, the government has activated enhanced response measures across the country, including the formation of a National Ebola Preparedness Team to coordinate emergency readiness activities.

Ministry of Health officials have also intensified surveillance for viral haemorrhagic fevers, strengthened screening at airports and border points, and enhanced laboratory preparedness and diagnostic capacity.

The Ministry further stated that it is working closely with international and regional health organisations , including the World Health Organisation (WHO), to monitor the evolving situation.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke