On November 11, 2026, Kenya discharged its last Ebola patient, marking the official start of a 42-day countdown toward being declared Ebola-free. This announcement came after the country reported a total of nine confirmed cases linked to a single imported infection from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which had spread to four family members and four healthcare workers. The outbreak, which began in May, has seen over 11,000 cases across the region, with 5,387 fatalities reported in Congo alone. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that all identified contacts of the initial patient had completed their monitoring period, and the last new case was recorded on October 19, 2026.

The Ministry of Health has emphasized that the 42-day waiting period is twice the longest known incubation period for the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. If no new cases are reported during this timeframe, Kenya could officially declare itself free of the virus by December 23, 2026. Despite the positive developments within the country, the situation remains dire in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the outbreak is ongoing, underscoring the need for continued vigilance. Kenya has implemented strict border controls and health screenings at all points of entry to prevent any potential reintroduction of the virus.S1S2

In light of the outbreak, Saudi Arabia imposed an indefinite suspension of visas for Kenyan workers on October 30, affecting many who travel to the Gulf for employment. The Kenyan government has urged Saudi authorities to reconsider these restrictions, asserting that all cases in Kenya were traced back to the initial imported case and that there is no ongoing community transmission. Duale has stated that the country will not issue quarantine or "Ebola-free" certificates for travelers, as such documents lack basis in the International Health Regulations.S1S2

As the countdown to an Ebola-free declaration begins, Kenya's health officials remain on high alert, with rapid response teams ready to address any new developments. The Ministry of Health plans to publish advisories for Kenyans returning from Ebola-affected areas, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo, which will include health declarations and follow-up monitoring. This proactive approach is critical to ensuring that the virus does not resurface in the country as the region continues to grapple with the outbreak's impact.S1S2