Kenya Confirms First Ebola Death as Outbreak Spreads in DR Congo

Kenya Confirms First Ebola Death as Outbreak Spreads in DR Congo
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Kenya has confirmed its first Ebola death after a Kenyan man who had lived in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for seven years died in Nairobi after returning from the country. Health Minister Aden Duale said the man arrived in Kenya on 3 October and was later diagnosed with Ebola after being admitted to hospital and isolated.

Authorities have identified 28 contacts linked to the deceased, including relatives and healthcare workers. One additional person has so far tested positive, while officials are working to trace 23 passengers and four crew members who travelled on the same flight. Quarantine arrangements have been prepared for people considered at risk.

The case comes as Ebola continues to spread in eastern and northern parts of the DRC. Médecins Sans Frontières has warned of an “alarming surge” in cases in North Kivu province, which now accounts for 40% of new cases. The response has been complicated by armed conflict, attacks on health workers, limited treatment capacity and shortages of resources.

Kenyan authorities have urged the public not to panic.