Kakamega County is set to establish two Ebola quarantine centres as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen preparedness against a possible outbreak of the deadly viral disease.
The announcement was made by Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, who said the county government had approved the plan after deliberating on measures to strengthen public health emergency preparedness.
The move comes amid growing public concern over the government’s Ebola response strategy, with protests erupting following reports that American citizens suspected of having contracted the virus would be accommodated at a facility in Laikipia.
“We have already had a session and discussed how we are prepared to tackle the Ebola disease that is threatening the East African region. We have agreed in our meeting that we must be prepared and send public officers to curb the disease in Kenya and the East African region,” he said.
According to county officials, the quarantine facilities will be used to isolate and monitor suspected Ebola cases in the event the disease is detected within the region. The county is also expected to intensify surveillance activities and public awareness campaigns to improve early detection and containment efforts.
Savula noted that Kakamega’s strategic location, which serves as a gateway to several counties and neighbouring countries through major transport routes, made it an important area for disease preparedness measures.
The development comes as Kenya continues to bolster its readiness following Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of East and Central Africa. National authorities have already activated emergency response mechanisms, including enhanced screening of travellers at border points and airports, while isolation facilities have been identified across the country.
Health officials have maintained that no Ebola cases have been confirmed in Kenya, but have stressed the need for vigilance due to increased cross-border movement and the risk of imported infections.
The establishment of the two quarantine centres is expected to strengthen Kakamega County’s capacity to respond swiftly to any suspected cases and help safeguard residents against potential health threats.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm, observe health advisories, and report any suspected symptoms to healthcare providers as the country continues to monitor the situation closely.