The government has intensified Ebola surveillance at border crossings after reporting its first case, with health officials inspecting preparedness at key entry points amid concerns over screening capacity and unofficial routes used by travellers.
Public Health and Sanitation, Director, Stephen Muleshe visited the Malaba and Busia border posts on Saturday to assess screening systems and emergency response measures as authorities seek to strengthen early detection and contain potential transmission.
Muleshe said the government was prioritising early detection, rapid response and community protection while seeking to avoid unnecessary public alarm.
The Busia County Department of Health and Sanitation said all 12 samples collected from suspected cases had tested negative as of October 8, offering a measure of reassurance as surveillance efforts continue.
The county said 331,568 travellers had been screened at the Busia and Malaba border points as of October 7.
Authorities have also activated the Busia county’s Emergency Operations Centre, established a County Incident Management System and deployed a mobile laboratory at Busia County Referral Hospital to strengthen testing and response capacity.
Alupe Hospital has been designated as an Ebola treatment unit, while 26 healthcare workers have been identified to support operations, according to the county health department.
Officials say 531 healthcare workers and other personnel have been trained or sensitised as part of the preparedness effort.
The government is coordinating a multi-sectoral response involving health, immigration, security and transport agencies, reflecting the need to combine medical surveillance with border management and public awareness.