A section of at least 30 healthcare workers who handled Kenya’s confirmed Ebola patient at The Nairobi Hospital are questioning their forced quarantine.
The medics say they were properly protected and had no documented breach of protective equipment while handling the patient who later died on October 5, 2026.
The patient, a Kenyan who lived 7 years in DRC, arrived on Jambojet flight 8523 from Entebbe to Nairobi on October 3 and was taken to Nairobi Hospital with fever, chills and subcutaneous bleeding.
He was isolated in the East Wing Isolation Facility. Samples tested at National Virology Reference Lab confirmed Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease.
According to Ministry of Health, 57 contacts have been identified, including 10 relatives who volunteered for quarantine and 21 health workers.
President William Ruto’s office said 8 family members and 21 health workers were quarantined. Nairobi Hospital CEO Dr Felix Osano said all staff wore required PPE under supervision.
The healthcare workers now want the Ministry of Health to explain why they have been moved to the same hospital wing where the patient was treated and later died, raising concerns about stigma and psychological safety.
The workers are being monitored for 21 days per protocol, as contact tracing continues for 23 passengers and 4 crew on the flight, plus 28 contacts in Nairobi.
WHO has commended Kenya for prompt action and reporting to International Health Regulations, saying government is working to identify all contacts to prevent community spread.
Nairobi Hospital says it is fully operational with a 133-bed designated facility and enhanced infection prevention measures.