**Kenya Reports New Ebola Case and Tightens Health Measures**

##NAIROBI, Kenya — October 16, 2026

Kenya has confirmed its third case of Ebola, also known as Bundibugyo virus disease, involving a 65-year-old woman who had been in quarantine since October 6, according to the country's Ministry of Health.

The woman was identified as a close relative and primary contact of the first two patients. Health officials said she developed symptoms while in quarantine and subsequently tested positive for the virus.

According to the ministry, the woman developed a fever, sore throat and general weakness. Samples were collected for laboratory testing, which confirmed the infection. She is receiving supportive care, and officials said early detection could improve her chances of recovery while reducing the risk of further transmission.

The third case comes as Kenya continues to investigate infections linked to an outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The outbreak has recorded more than 9,000 cases and over 4,300 deaths, according to reports published on October 16.

##Contact Tracing and Health Measures

Kenyan authorities have intensified efforts to identify and monitor people who may have been exposed to the virus. By October 16, officials had identified 130 contacts connected to the first patient, with 127 traced and placed in quarantine. Efforts to locate the remaining three contacts were continuing.

Health authorities have also strengthened screening procedures at points of entry. Measures include digital health surveillance forms for travellers arriving from high-risk countries and additional checks by port health officers.

These measures are intended to help authorities identify possible infections early and reduce the likelihood of further transmission.

##Advice for Travellers and Families

Health experts emphasise that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person, or through contaminated objects. It does not spread through the air in the same way as common respiratory infections.

People who may have been exposed should follow Kenya health rules and seek medical advice if symptoms develop. Possible symptoms include fever, tiredness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat.

Travellers should also comply with any screening requirements and provide accurate information to health officials.

##Government Assesses Public Risk

On October 16, Kenyan authorities said there was no evidence of wider community transmission and assessed the risk to the general public as low. Officials attributed the early identification of the third patient to the fact that she was already in quarantine when symptoms appeared.

The ministry continued to monitor contacts and strengthen infection-prevention measures as part of its response.

However, the situation developed further the following day. On October 17, Kenya confirmed four additional cases, bringing the country's total to seven. The new cases included three health workers who had treated the first patient.

The subsequent cases highlighted the importance of continued monitoring, protective measures for East African public health care workers and rapid identification of people who may have been exposed.