As Tanzania battles a Marburg virus outbreak in its Kagera region, Kenya’s Ministry of Health has escalated its preparedness efforts to prevent the potential spread of the deadly disease.
Given the two countries’ close cross-border interactions, Kenya is taking proactive steps to mitigate the risk of imported cases.
During a weekly media briefing, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, outlined key measures under Kenya’s Marburg Contingency Plan.
These include:Enhanced Border Surveillance: Screening at all points of entry, including airports and land crossings, has been intensified.
Laboratory Preparedness:
Kenya’s national laboratory network has been activated to facilitate rapid detection and response to suspected cases.
Healthcare Training & Equipment:
Frontline workers are undergoing infection prevention and control training, while hospitals are being stocked with personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure safety.
Public Awareness Campaigns:
Authorities are rolling out education programs to inform citizens about symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures.
Kenya is also coordinating closely with Tanzanian health officials and international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to bolster technical support and surveillance efforts.
Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health, urged counties and healthcare facilities to maintain high vigilance and adhere to strict infection control measures.
“Early detection and swift action are key in preventing a potential outbreak,” he emphasized.
While Kenya has not reported any cases, the government remains on high alert.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation, reinforcing efforts to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of Marburg virus disease.
