No outbreak of Nipah Virus in Kenya, Ministry of Health says

The Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory following the confirmation of two cases of Nipah virus (NiV) in the West Bengal region of India.

The government has assured Kenyans that there is no outbreak in the country and that the risk of importation remains low.

In the advisory on February 3, Health Director General Patrick Amoth said the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has heightened preparedness measures as a precaution.

“There is currently no Nipah Virus outbreak in Kenya; the risk to the general public remains low. Simple hygiene, safe food practices, and early care-seeking are effective preventive measures.

Nipah virus is a rare but severe viral disease that can spread from animals to humans and, in some instances, between people, and can cause serious illness affecting the brain and lungs.

He noted that while outbreaks have previously occurred in parts of Asia, no cases have been reported in Africa, including Kenya.

The ministry said it has placed the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on watch mode, is conducting continuous risk assessments and strengthening response planning.

Amoth outlined that fruit bats naturally host the virus and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, consumption of food contaminated by bats, such as unwashed fruits or raw fruit products, or close contact with infected individuals, particularly through bodily fluids in households or healthcare settings.

Symptoms typically appear between three and 21 days after infection and may include fever, headache, confusion or drowsiness, cough, breathing difficulties, vomiting or diarrhoea.

Severe cases can lead to brain inflammation and be life-threatening, with the ministry emphasising that early medical care improves outcomes.

Kenyans have been advised to observe strict hygiene measures, including regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with seriously ill persons, and seeking medical attention promptly if they develop fever accompanied by breathing problems or confusion.

Kenyans have also been urged to wash and peel fruits before consumption, avoid fruits with signs of animal bites, refrain from consuming raw or unprocessed fruit products, and avoid handling sick or dead animals without protection.

The ministry further advised against non-essential travel to affected areas in India until further notice, adding that those who must travel should observe strict personal hygiene and seek medical care immediately if they develop symptoms after travel.

Ministry of Health urged the public to rely on official government sources for updates and to avoid spreading rumours or unverified information.