The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has called on the Ministry of Health and its partners to strengthen the protection and support provided to healthcare workers affected by Ebola, following confirmation of infections among frontline colleagues.
In a statement dated October 19, 2026, KMA expressed solidarity with the affected healthcare workers, their families and the medical teams caring for them. The association said the reported infections were deeply concerning and had created anxiety among healthcare workers and their loved ones.
KMA President Dr. Ibrahim Matende reaffirmed the need to ensure that every healthcare worker operates in a safe working environment and has timely access to quality medical care.
The association urged the Ministry of Health and its partners to ensure that affected healthcare workers receive prompt medical assessment, referral services and appropriate treatment. It also called for adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and continuous training on infection prevention and control.
KMA further emphasised the importance of confidential psychosocial support for affected workers and their families, noting the need to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the outbreak.
The association also called on health facility managers to identify and address safety gaps while strengthening systems for reporting potential exposure to the virus.
According to KMA, healthcare facilities should promote a supportive and non-punitive environment where workers can report suspected exposure early without fear of punishment. Such measures, the association noted, are important in encouraging timely reporting and improving workplace safety.
Healthcare workers have also been urged to strictly follow the Ministry of Health’s infection prevention and control guidelines and immediately report any suspected exposure to Ebola.
Those who develop symptoms have been advised to stop working, avoid contact with other people and seek urgent medical assessment through established public health response channels.
The association reiterated its commitment to advocating for the protection, welfare and access to healthcare of medical professionals throughout the response.
Addressing affected colleagues, KMA said their service and sacrifices were valued, assuring them that they were not alone during the challenging period.
The statement comes amid concerns over infections involving frontline healthcare workers, highlighting the importance of adequate protective equipment, effective infection prevention measures and timely access to medical and psychological support.
