Kenya confirms third Ebola case as 127 contacts placed in quarantine

Kenya has confirmed a third case of Ebola (Bundibugyo virus disease), involving a 65-year-old woman who had been in quarantine since October 6, as health authorities intensify surveillance to contain the outbreak.

The Ministry of Health said Friday, October 16, that the woman was a primary contact and close relative of the first and second patients.

She developed a fever, sore throat and malaise while in quarantine, prompting her isolation and testing.

Her samples tested positive at both the National Virology Reference Laboratory and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) laboratory.

She has since been transferred to the Infectious Disease Unit, where she is receiving supportive care from trained health workers.

“Having been in quarantine, she was diagnosed early and is currently receiving supportive care, improving her chances of recovery while limiting the risk of further spread of the disease,” Director General for Health Patrick Amoth said in a statement.