The Kenyan government has alerted citizens about the outbreak of Nipah Virus in parts of India and advised avoiding travel unless necessary. Health authorities have stressed the importance of hygiene measures for those who must make the trip.
Director General of Health Patrick Amoth said the likelihood of the virus reaching Kenya is low but called for vigilance. “Two confirmed cases have been reported in the current outbreak in the West Bengal region in India. The risk of spread of the disease to Kenya is low, the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation,” he stated.
He added, “Kenyans are advised to avoid non-essential travel to affected areas in India until further notice. Those who must travel should observe strict personal hygiene.”
The World Health Organisation has confirmed the outbreak, describing Nipah Virus as a serious disease that requires global monitoring. This has led health authorities worldwide to increase surveillance and preparedness.
Nipah Virus is mainly transmitted from animals to humans, with fruit bats or flying foxes being the primary carriers. These bats are found in India, South-East Asia, Oceania, and islands across the Indian Ocean. The virus can also spread through contaminated food or close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms generally appear around 14 days after infection and include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the virus, WHO confirms.
The Ministry of Health said it is keeping a close watch on developments in India, conducting risk evaluations, and ensuring the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (NPHEOC) is prepared for any eventuality.
Kenyans are urged to seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms, avoid close contact with seriously ill people, and practice regular handwashing. The ministry also recommends washing fruits carefully, avoiding fruit with animal bite marks, not consuming raw or unprocessed fruit products, and safely handling sick or dead animals.
