Kenya is stepping up preparedness following the confirmation of nine Marburg virus cases in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia Region, on November 14. The Kenya National Public Health Institute (NPHI) has raised an alert due to strong travel, trade, and migration ties between the two countries, which could increase the risk of virus spread.
The Marburg virus belongs to the same family as Ebola and is transmitted to humans primarily through fruit bats. Human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials. Currently, there is no approved vaccine or treatment for the disease.
County-Level Preparedness
NPHI Director General, Kamene Kimenye, emphasized that county governments must heighten surveillance across health facilities, communities, and points of entry. This includes traveler screening, active case finding, and timely reporting of suspected cases through national monitoring systems.
Counties have also been urged to designate and maintain functional isolation facilities, enforce Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols, and ensure clear referral pathways for safe patient transfer. Healthcare workers are expected to be trained in Marburg virus recognition, triage, supportive management, and specimen handling under strict biosafety protocols in coordination with the National Public Health Laboratories (NPHL).
Community engagement is equally critical. Local leaders, community health promoters, and other trusted channels should educate the public on symptoms, prevention, and early reporting.
Public Advisory
The NPHI has advised the public to avoid contact with bodily fluids from suspected or confirmed cases. Frequent handwashing, safe handling of contaminated materials, and adherence to safe burial practices are essential. Additionally, the institute strongly warns against consuming bushmeat, including bats and monkeys, known carriers of the virus.
With Marburg outbreaks previously reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, and other African countries, authorities stress vigilance to prevent the disease from spreading into Kenya.
