Kenya has recorded its second death from Ebola. A 65-year-old woman, a close family member of the country’s first Ebola patient, died Friday evening while receiving treatment.
The Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, announced his death in a statement published on October 23 at 10 p.m.
This is the third confirmed case of Bundibugyo virus disease in Kenya. The ministry said she was a direct contact of the first case who died on October 6 and was in quarantine when she developed symptoms on October 13.
She was admitted to the infectious diseases unit the same day, where she received supportive care until her death in the early evening.
“Unfortunately, she succumbed to the illness early this evening,” Dr. Amoth said. Medical teams “did everything possible to save his life”.
“His death brings the toll to two out of nine confirmed cases. The remaining seven patients are in two isolation centers,” Dr Amoth said.
The ministry said all cases remain within a single known contact group. He said there was no evidence of community spread.
The ministry said it was working with the family on what it called a safe and dignified burial. “Trained teams will carry it out according to public health protocols; we will respect the family’s wishes and beliefs while protecting the family and community from further infection.” » said Dr. Amoth.
The ministry said his death is reminiscent of the behavior of the disease.
“Ebola is a serious illness that can be fatal, and patients can change their condition suddenly without warning,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to avoid contact with the blood or body fluids of a sick person, and not to touch or handle the body of anyone who has died from a suspected illness. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water. Get help right away if you develop fever, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding.
“The public can call 719 free of charge or use the WhatsApp chatbot on 0700 719 719,” he said.
“Let us honor his memory by coming together and supporting the affected families with respect, dignity and compassion,” said Dr. Amoth.
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