Principal Secretary for the State Department of Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, has assured Kenyans that the country is secure following the confirmation of a single imported case of the Ebola disease, urging the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic.
Speaking at ACK St Barnabas Mururi in Kirinyaga County, Muthoni said health surveillance is ongoing at all points of entry into the country, including unofficial crossing points, to detect and prevent the possible spread of the disease.
She maintained that the reported case was an isolated imported case, assuring the public that the government was taking the necessary measures to contain any potential spread.
The PS confirmed that contacts of the reported case had been traced and placed under quarantine for observation as part of the public health response.
Muthoni urged Kenyans to rely on verified information from the Ministry of Health, warning against the spread of misinformation that could cause unnecessary fear and confusion. She called on media practitioners to work closely with the government in ensuring the public receives accurate and timely updates on the situation.
“I call upon the media fraternity that we work together to avoid unnecessary panic,” she said.
The PS further urged Kenyans to observe basic public health measures, maintain high standards of personal hygiene and adhere to established disease prevention protocols.
“Don’t forget the protocols of COVID-19,” Muthoni said, reminding the public of the importance of maintaining preventive practices that helped protect communities during the pandemic.
She also highlighted the role of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in strengthening access to healthcare services, noting that routine screening remains an important component of disease detection and prevention.
by Mutai Kipng’etich
