The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged Kenya not to close its borders following the country’s confirmation of its first case of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said blanket travel and trade restrictions would be less effective than targeted public health measures, including traveller screening, contact tracing and enhanced surveillance at points of entry.
Tedros said he had spoken with Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale about Kenya’s response and commended preparations made to handle the outbreak.
“WHO advises against blanket travel or trade restrictions which are less effective than screening, contact tracing, and other measures,” Tedros said on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
He stressed that countries that promptly report outbreaks should not be punished through travel bans, saying transparency is critical to controlling infectious diseases.
Kenya confirmed its first Bundibugyo Ebola case on October 3, 2026, prompting intensified surveillance and response measures as health authorities work to prevent further transmission.
