The Ministry of Health has announced the death of a 65-year-old woman who was receiving treatment for Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in Nairobi, raising the death toll to two.
Health Director General Patrick Amoth on Friday, October 23, said the woman was the third confirmed Ebola patient in the country and a close family member of the first Ebola patient who died on October 5.
According to Amoth, the woman had been under quarantine when she developed symptoms on October 13, 2026, and was under treatment in an infectious disease unit before passing away on Friday evening.
“Her family has been formally informed of this sad event. On behalf of the government and the people of Kenya, the Ministry extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and community,” Amoth said.
Red Cross Society workers wearing personal protective equipment gathered after handling the coffin of a man who died of Ebola.
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CNBC Africa
"We stand with them at this very difficult moment. We kindly ask the public and the media to respect the family's privacy as they mourn their loved one,” he added.
The latest announcement brings the number of deaths to two among nine confirmed Ebola cases reported in Kenya, with the remaining seven patients receiving care in two separate isolation facilities.
According to the Health DG, all nine cases remain linked to a single cluster of known contacts, with no evidence of community transmission.
Amoth further noted that the Ministry of Health is in direct talks with the family of the deceased to facilitate a safe, dignified burial in line with established public health protocols.
He said trained teams will conduct the burial with respect for the family's wishes and beliefs while protecting the family and community from further possible infection.
“Her passing is a painful reminder that Ebola is a serious disease that can be fatal, and patients can change condition suddenly without warning,” Amoth cautioned.
To prevent further infections, the Ministry of Health urged Kenyans to observe public health measures, including avoiding contact with the blood or body fluids of sick people.
The ministry also warned against touching or handling the bodies of people who have died from suspected illnesses and advised regular handwashing with soap and water.
Kenyans have further been urged to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms such as fever, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding.
To report Ebola-related emergencies, call the toll-free line 719 or dial *719# or text the Ministry of Health via WhatsApp on 0700 719 719.
A photo collage of a test tube labelled ebola and Nairobi in the background, October 14, 2026.
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Kenyans.co.ke