Kenya has successfully discharged its first five Ebola patients as well as released 46 contacts from quarantine. The five male patients, who received treatment at both Kenyatta National Hospital and The Nairobi Hospital, have fully completed their treatment and tested negative for the virus. They were discharged on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

According to a statement signed by the Director-General for Health Patrick Amoth, the 46 contacts have successfully completed their 21 days of monitoring and were in good health.

The latest batch of patients to be released means a total of 66 contacts have now been discharged from monitoring. The first 20 patients were released on October 25. There are still 52 contacts to be released as they complete their monitoring by November 11. Two patients are currently undergoing treatment.

Kenya has a total of nine confirmed cases however two have sadly passed away. The five patients who have been discharged, along with the two patients currently undergoing treatment, make up the seven confirmed cases who have not passed away.

The ministry has stressed that just because patients are recovering and contacts are being released does not mean the outbreak has come to an end. The Ministry of Health has asked the public to treat patients with dignity when they return to their communities.

“All patients and contacts are discharged only after meeting strict public health criteria and will receive psychosocial support from our multi-disciplinary team of health experts,” Amoth said.

The ministry has also asked families, employers and neighbours to welcome those returning home.

Once the last patient has recovered or been buried safely, Kenya will begin counting down 42 days. If no new cases are reported during this time the outbreak can be declared over. However until then health authorities will continue to test suspected cases, monitor contacts and increase surveillance.

The ministry has asked those experiencing symptoms of Ebola to seek medical help and tell the health workers about their contact. The discharge of five patients and release of 46 contacts is a huge step forward however monitoring is essential for Kenya to get on top of the outbreak.