WHO Commends Kenya for Swift Detection of Imported Ebola Case, Urges Media to Counter Misinformation

Story by Violet Kerubo

The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Kenya for its rapid detection and timely reporting of an imported Ebola case, while urging journalists to promote accurate public information, prevent stigma and strengthen community preparedness against the disease.

Speaking during a media engagement in Nairobi, Dr. Mercy Neema a WHO representative said the patient arrived in Kenya on October 1 and was taken directly to Nairobi Hospital, where tests confirmed Ebola infection.

The representative praised Kenya for promptly notifying WHO, noting that the International Health Regulations require countries to report qualifying public health events to the global health body within 24 hours.

The swift detection and reporting were described as important steps in containing the disease and preventing further transmission within the community.

The WHO representative said significant efforts had been directed towards contact tracing, emphasizing that the country had an opportunity to contain the imported case and prevent further spread.

However, the representative warned that the risk remained high because Ebola cases continued to be reported elsewhere in the region, raising the possibility of additional imported infections.

“No one is safe until everyone is safe,” Dr. Mercy said, calling for sustained preparedness even as health authorities focus on containing the current case.

WHO urges media to close Ebola information gap

The WHO representative identified the media as a critical partner in educating the public, countering rumours and ensuring communities understand how Ebola spreads and how to protect themselves.

According to Dr. Mercy , the latest survey cited during the engagement showed that nine in ten people had heard of Ebola, but approximately half still had limited knowledge of its transmission and prevention.

The findings highlighted a gap between general awareness and practical understanding of the disease, which the media was urged to address through consistent public education.

She outlined four key requests to journalists: ensuring speed and accuracy in reporting, protecting patients’ dignity and privacy, encouraging early health-seeking behaviour, and asking difficult questions on behalf of the public.

1. Verify information before publication

Journalists were urged to report developments quickly without compromising accuracy, particularly as rumours and unverified claims circulate on social media during public health emergencies.

She advised media houses to verify information with credible sources, including the Ministry of Health, the National Public Health Institute, WHO and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The representative cautioned that sensational reporting and misinformation could fuel unnecessary fear, undermine public confidence and encourage inappropriate responses to the outbreak.

While acknowledging the pressure on media organisations to publish compelling stories, the representative said responsible journalism must take precedence over sensational headlines and unverified claims.

2. Protect patients’ privacy and dignity

The WHO also called on journalists to respect the privacy of patients and their families when covering Ebola-related developments.

The representative cautioned against publishing names, photographs or other identifying details that could expose affected individuals to stigma and discrimination.

According to WHO, irresponsible coverage could discourage people who suspect they have been exposed to the virus from seeking medical attention for fear of being identified or ostracised by their communities.

Journalists were therefore encouraged to report public health developments without compromising the dignity and confidentiality of affected individuals.

3. Encourage early detection and treatment

The WHO representative urged the media to educate the public about Ebola symptoms and the importance of seeking medical attention promptly.

The early symptoms of Ebola can resemble those of other illnesses, including malaria, and may include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Dr Mercy said public awareness campaigns should encourage people experiencing compatible symptoms, particularly those with a possible exposure to an affected area, to seek prompt medical assessment and follow public health guidance.

The media was also asked to communicate appropriate precautions for people who may have been exposed to the virus.

She further highlighted the importance of safe and dignified burial practices, explaining that special precautions are necessary when handling the bodies of people who have died from Ebola.

While recognising the importance of cultural and traditional burial practices, she said communities should be informed about established safety guidelines and the need to prevent further transmission.

4. Ask difficult questions and demand clear answers

Journalists were encouraged to raise the concerns and questions circulating among members of the public to ensure health authorities provide timely explanations. Dr Mercy said media briefings and engagements offer opportunities to clarify uncertainties, challenge gaps in communication and obtain reliable information directly from experts.

The organisation pledged to continue working with the Ministry of Health and other partners to provide regular, verified updates and technical guidance to journalists.

She said WHO had supported Kenya’s preparedness efforts in areas including blood safety, case management and disease surveillance.

The organisation had also provided supplies, including personal protective equipment and tents, and recently donated supplies valued at approximately US$70,000 following the announcement of the imported case.

WHO said it would continue supporting Kenya’s efforts to strengthen preparedness and response capacity.

WHO explains why border closures are discouraged

Addressing concerns about whether Kenya should close its borders to prevent Ebola transmission, the representative said such a measure was not recommended as an effective approach to controlling the outbreak.

She also explained that closing official crossing points could push travellers towards unofficial routes, where health authorities would have fewer opportunities to screen people and identify those who may require follow-up.

Maintaining official border crossings, the representative said, allows authorities to conduct screening and identify travellers who may be at risk while enabling essential economic and other activities to continue.

The representative also noted that border closures could have significant economic consequences without necessarily eliminating the risk of cross-border transmission.

WHO therefore encouraged measures that strengthen screening, surveillance, contact tracing and preparedness rather than relying on border closures.

Regional vigilance remains critical

Despite commending Kenya’s handling of the imported case, WHO warned that the country must remain vigilant because the wider region continues to face Ebola-related risks.

The representative said the possibility of further imported cases makes sustained preparedness essential, even as authorities focus on containing the current infection.

The media was urged to remain a reliable source of public health information by explaining the risks clearly, correcting misinformation and helping communities understand when and how to seek medical assistance.

WHO reiterated that coordinated action between the government, health professionals, international partners and journalists would be essential in containing the current case and reducing the risk of further transmission.

The organisation called on media houses to ensure that public health reporting informs rather than frightens communities, supports affected families and encourages responsible action during the response.