The Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret has confirmed that one person has been placed under quarantine in its facilities due to a possible exposure to the Ebola virus.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 22, Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip Kirwa said the individual was identified through contact tracing linked to confirmed cases of the Bundibugyo virus.
Kirwa clarified that the hospital had no Ebola-infected patients and urged the public not to confuse preventive measures with confirmed infections.
He emphasised that being placed under quarantine does not mean someone has tested positive for the disease.
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Philip Kirwa chairing a budget meeting on July 30, 2024
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“We have no Ebola-infected patients. Quarantine is not equal to being an infected person,” the CEO stated.
According to MTRH, the individual will remain under observation for 21 days, with release expected if no symptoms develop during that period.
Kirwa called on Kenyans to remain calm as authorities continue implementing measures to contain the spread of the disease.
The latest development comes after Kenya’s confirmed Bundibugyo virus cases rise to nine, with health officials continuing to monitor people who may have been exposed.
The Ministry of Health reported that 134 of the 135 people identified as contacts of the first patient had been traced
However, officials were yet to disclose whether the newly quarantined individual was among the 135 identified contacts or an additional case.
Meanwhile, the first group of people placed under quarantine after exposure to Ebola is expected to begin leaving the facilities on Sunday, October 25, after completing the mandatory 21-day monitoring period.
The Ministry continues to advise Kenyans to contact its emergency response team on 719, dial *719# or send a WhatsApp message to 0700 719 719 for Ebola-related concerns.
Concerns over Ebola continue to grow in Kenya, particularly as other nations have begun imposing restrictions on travel to and from the country.
Further, Nigeria also recently confirmed its first case, with Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director-General Jean Kaseya warning that no African country is completely safe from the virus.
Aerial view of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).
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Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH)