Health experts have reiterated the importance of understanding how Ebola spreads, warning the public against misinformation as concerns about the deadly disease continue to attract attention.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of a person who is sick with the virus or has died from the disease. These fluids include vomit, saliva, urine, faeces and other bodily secretions that may contain the virus.
The disease can also spread when broken skin or mucous membranes come into contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing, bedding and medical equipment.
However, Ebola does not spread through the air like common respiratory infections, including influenza. This distinction is important in helping people understand the actual risks and avoid unnecessary panic.
People are generally not infectious before they develop symptoms. Once symptoms appear, the risk of transmission increases through contact with infected bodily fluids.
Early symptoms may include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache and a sore throat. In some cases, patients may later develop vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding.
Because the initial symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses, anyone experiencing symptoms after possible exposure should seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare workers about their contact history.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to avoid direct contact with suspected cases, refrain from handling the bodies of people who may have died from Ebola without proper precautions, and follow guidance issued by health authorities.
Healthcare workers face particular risks when caring for infected patients without appropriate protective equipment and infection prevention measures.
As discussions about Ebola continue on social media, Kenyans should rely on verified information from the Ministry of Health and qualified health professionals rather than unconfirmed claims circulating online.
Sharing accurate information can help communities recognise potential risks without creating unnecessary fear.
The public should remain alert, practise good hygiene and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities. Understanding how Ebola is transmitted remains an important step in preventing infections and protecting communities.