Kenya has screened more than 55,000 travellers for the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) at various entry points across the country, with all 10 suspected cases tested so far returning negative results, the government has announced.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Wednesday said the country had intensified surveillance and preparedness measures in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region.
Duale said Kenya had activated its national Incident Management System, enhanced surveillance at border points and designated laboratories for Ebola testing as part of efforts to strengthen public health protection.
“To date, more than 55,000 travellers have been screened for the disease through various ports of entry, and we have tested a total of 10 cases, all of which have turned out negative,” he said.
The Health CS noted that the government continues to strengthen preparedness and response activities in collaboration with county governments, regional institutions and international partners.
According to the Ministry of Health, Kenya’s public health institutions have played a significant role in advancing disease surveillance, laboratory systems, emergency response and public health coordination over the years, including during the 2014–2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak.
Duale also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to international cooperation in strengthening global health security amid ongoing discussions with the United States government and other partners on Ebola preparedness and response mechanisms for emerging public health threats.
“Kenya welcomes partnerships that strengthen global health security and reaffirm our shared commitment to protecting lives through coordinated, science-based action,” he said.
He added that all international health cooperation arrangements would be guided by Kenya’s national laws, biosafety standards and the government’s responsibility to protect citizens and frontline health workers.
“Protection of Kenyan citizens, frontline health workers and communities remains paramount,” Duale said.
The Cabinet Secretary reiterated that Kenya remains committed to enhancing preparedness and resilience through science, collaboration and coordinated response mechanisms.
“Kenya is ready. Kenya is capable. Kenya will continue to act responsibly in safeguarding both national and global health security,” he said, adding that the government would continue providing regular updates on the situation.
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