Kenya has released the first 20 people who were being monitored after confirming an imported case of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease after 21 days of being symptom free, the Ministry of Health said on Monday, 26th October 2026. They have all been monitored for the required amount of time, and are well, the ministry said.

“Three weeks ago, on 6th October 2026, Kenya confirmed its first imported case of Ebola (Bundibugyo Virus Disease). Today, the first twenty (20) contacts who have completed the full 21-day monitoring period and are in good health are returning home to their families,” the statement read.

This gives an update on how the country is dealing with the imported infection. However, does not confirm how many of the contacts have been fully monitored, or how many more cases have been found.

Those identified as contacts of an Ebola patient will be monitored due to the potential delay between exposure and symptoms presenting. They will be monitored for 21 days from their last possible exposure. Health authorities will monitor them for any signs of illness and if required they will be referred for further assessment.

The 20 people being released means they have been monitored for the required amount of time with no symptoms. This does not mean they are out of the water or that all the other contacts have been released.

The Ministry of Health said there are 98 more contacts in quarantine. These will be released in 4 batches from 3rd November. They will be released depending on their individual health. Health Director General Dr Patrick Amoth said they have all been assessed to meet the criteria for release. They have all been symptom free for 21 days since their last exposure.

“The remaining 98 contacts are expected to be released in four waves beginning 3rd November 2026 based on their individual health assessment. This is a milestone worth celebrating, and a clear sign that early identification, quarantine and close monitoring are working. It is also a reminder that the work is not yet done,” the statement added.

The ministry will identify those who may have been exposed to the infected person. They will monitor them for the length of the incubation period. If they present any symptoms they will be referred for further action. The 21 days is based on the known incubation period of Ebola virus disease.

Symptoms of Bundibugyo virus disease can present between 2-21 days after infection, according to the WHO. If symptoms present whilst they are being monitored they will need to be assessed quickly.

The ministry have also advised those still in quarantine to follow the advice of health workers and report any symptoms. They are being released in batches so they can be assessed based on their monitoring period.

The first 20 contacts have been released as Kenya continues to deal with an outbreak. There have been 9 confirmed cases of Bundibugyo Ebola. 2 people have sadly passed away. The 7 remaining patients are said to be stable and receiving treatment in specialised centres, according to the Ministry of Health updates.