Kenyans are on High Alert after health authorities in Kericho County reported a suspected case of Ebola.
This was after a patient exhibited suspected symptoms of the haemorrhagic fever at Kericho County Referral Hospital.
County officials on Monday revealed that the woman had travelled from Malaba, on the border of Kenya and Uganda, to see her spouse.
Kericho County Chief Public Relations Officer Timothy Kemei issued a press release on Sunday stating,
"This evening a patient presenting symptoms similar to those exhibited by Ebola patients was admitted at the Kericho County Referral Hospital.
"The County Disease Surveillance Team immediately took over the matter and took all the necessary precautions to ensure that there was minimal contact between the patient and other persons at the hospital including the staff and the other hospital users.
"The County Department of Health Services is monitoring this potential case very closely and is working with the National Government to ensure that all essential procedures are followed to protect public health and safety.
"This patient has been placed in isolation and blood samples sent to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) in Nairobi for further analysis. The preliminary test results are expected to be ready within the next 12 to 24 hours.
"The County Government assures the public that the County Referral Hospital is capable and well equipped to ensure the proper isolation of the patient and the protection of other hospital users and calls on everyone to maintain calm and patience.
"It is important to note that the symptoms that have been exhibited by the patient can be indicative of any other medical condition and so there is no confirmed case of Ebola in Kericho at the moment. Kindly note that no visits will be allowed into the isolation room," his statement read.
