Kenya releases first 20 Ebola contacts from quarantine; remaining 98 to be released from 3 November

Kenya released the first 20 contacts of its first Ebola case from quarantine after they completed the mandatory 21-day monitoring period without symptoms, the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) said on 26 October. A total of 98 contacts remain in quarantine.

The WHO Regional Office for Africa said Kenya has reported nine confirmed cases and two deaths. All nine cases are part of one connected group, and there is no evidence that the virus has spread to the community. Eight contacts developed symptoms and tested positive; they were already in quarantine and were transferred to the Ebola treatment centre in Nairobi.

The 20 were contacts of Kenya's first imported case of Bundibugyo virus disease, confirmed on 6 October. Each had a final health assessment and counselling on post-discharge precautions before leaving.

Dr Patrick Amoth, the Director General for Health, asked communities to "welcome them home warmly". "Having completed 21 days without symptoms, they pose no risk of infection to anyone," he said.

Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, the WHO Representative to Kenya, said: "People who complete quarantine have helped protect their families, their communities and the whole country."

The remaining 98 contacts are to be released in four groups beginning 3 November, subject to individual health assessments, The Star and Citizen Digital reported.

The ministry said the outbreak has not yet been contained and urged Kenyans to stay vigilant. "While we celebrate this milestone today, our eyes remain firmly on the finish line," Amoth said.

There is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo virus disease. The WHO says detecting cases early and providing supportive care improves the chances of recovery, and it advises against travel restrictions.

The ministry said the outbreak will be declared over only 42 days after the last confirmed patient has tested negative twice, at least 48 hours apart, and has been discharged or safely buried.