Kenya’s Ministry of Health has confirmed a second death from the Ebola outbreak, raising concerns as seven other patients continue receiving treatment at isolation facilities in Nairobi.
The deceased was a 65-year-old woman who died on Friday evening, October 23, 2026, while receiving treatment for Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease. Health Director-General Dr Patrick Amoth said she was the country’s third confirmed Ebola patient and a close family member of the first patient, who died on October 5.
According to the Ministry of Health, the woman was already in quarantine when she developed symptoms on October 13. She was immediately admitted to an infectious disease unit, where medical teams provided supportive care until her condition deteriorated.
Her death brings Kenya’s Ebola toll to two fatalities among nine confirmed cases. The seven remaining patients are receiving treatment at two separate isolation facilities.
Dr Amoth said all confirmed cases remain linked to one cluster of known contacts, with health authorities reporting no evidence of community transmission.
The ministry is also working with the deceased woman’s family to arrange a safe and dignified burial in accordance with public health guidelines. Specially trained teams will handle the process while respecting the family’s wishes and protecting the wider community.
Health officials have urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and follow recommended preventive measures as contact tracing and monitoring continue.
The public has been advised to avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of people who are sick or suspected of having Ebola. Kenyans have also been warned against touching or handling bodies of people who may have died from suspected infectious illnesses.
Regular handwashing with soap and water remains among the recommended precautions. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, unusual weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding should seek medical attention immediately.
Members of the public can report Ebola-related emergencies through the Ministry of Health’s toll-free line 719, dial *719#, or send a message through WhatsApp on 0700 719 719.
The ministry has appealed for calm as health teams continue efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections.