Health ministry urges churches to step up Ebola awareness

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni/MARY MUTHONI/X

The Ministry of Health has urged churches across Kenya to raise awareness about Ebola and encourage congregants to report possible exposure early following an imported case in the country.

In a statement addressed to church congregations, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni urged church leaders to use sermons, announcements, fellowship meetings and community outreach to share verified information about Ebola, promote preventive practices and support affected families without discrimination.

“Churches have an important role in protecting families and communities by promoting preventive practices, encouraging early reporting and supporting those affected,” PS Muthoni said.

The ministry advised anyone who has been in contact with a person suspected or confirmed to have Ebola to notify health authorities immediately, even if they feel well.

“Follow instructions on monitoring, quarantine or movement restrictions as advised by public health officials,” she said.

According to the statement, contacts identified by health authorities should monitor their symptoms daily for 21 days after their last possible exposure. Not every contact requires isolation, but anyone who develops symptoms should report immediately for assessment.

Ebola symptoms may appear between two and 21 days after infection. They include sudden fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and skin rash. In severe cases, unexplained bleeding may occur.

“Do not wait for bleeding before seeking medical advice,” PS Muthoni said.

The ministry urged Kenyans to maintain good hand hygiene by regularly washing their hands with soap and clean running water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 70 per cent alcohol.

It also advised the public to avoid direct contact with the blood, saliva, sweat, vomit, urine, faeces, breast milk, semen and other body fluids of anyone suspected or confirmed to have Ebola.

“Avoid close physical contact, including kissing and hugging, with anyone who may be infected.”

The statement further warned against handling or sharing clothing, bedding, utensils, razor blades, needles or other items that may have been contaminated by an infected person.

People travelling to or from Ebola-affected areas, healthcare workers, family members and caregivers who come into direct contact with infected people without appropriate protection face an increased risk of infection, according to the statement.

The ministry also urged Kenyans to avoid handling sick or dead wild animals, including bats, monkeys, antelopes and porcupines. It advised against handling or consuming bushmeat from animals suspected to be infected with Ebola.

Households were advised to contact health authorities immediately if a member is suspected of having Ebola. Family members should avoid close physical contact with the person, exposure to their body fluids and sharing potentially contaminated personal items.

Healthcare workers and caregivers attending to suspected Ebola cases should follow appropriate infection-prevention measures and use recommended personal protective equipment, according to the statement.

“Family members and untrained individuals should not attempt to provide direct care without guidance from qualified health professionals,” the PS said.

The ministry urged anyone who develops symptoms associated with Ebola, particularly after possible exposure, to seek medical advice immediately.

“Early identification, appropriate treatment and supportive care can improve the chances of survival. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe.”

People who suspect they have Ebola were advised to call the Ministry of Health toll-free hotline 719 for guidance on safe referral and transport to an appropriate health facility. They should avoid unnecessary contact with other people while awaiting medical assistance.

The ministry also urged communities to support safe and dignified burials, warning that the body of a person who has died from Ebola remains highly infectious.

“Do not touch, wash or handle the body. Inform health authorities immediately so that trained teams can arrange a safe and dignified burial in accordance with public health guidelines,” PS Muthoni said.

The statement also addressed prevention after recovery, noting that Ebola can remain in semen after recovery. Male survivors were advised to follow medical guidance on sexual activity, including abstinence or condom use until testing confirms that the virus is no longer present.

Muthoni urged communities to avoid discrimination against people suspected or confirmed to have Ebola, survivors and their families.

“Avoid discrimination, rejection or blame. Encourage those affected to seek appropriate medical care while observing recommended safety measures,” she said.

The ministry cautioned Kenyans against spreading rumours, fear or unverified information about Ebola and urged the public to rely on its official communication channels for updates, prevention guidance and information on the national response.

It said it was working with county governments, healthcare workers and partners to strengthen surveillance, contact tracing and preparedness across the country.

Members of the public can contact the ministry through the 719 toll-free hotline, the *719# USSD service or the Jali WhatsApp Assistant on 0700 719 719 for information, reporting suspected cases and guidance on safe referral.

The PS encouraged church leaders to continue using their platforms to promote public health awareness, saying vigilance, timely reporting and adherence to preventive measures were essential in protecting communities.