Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has placed one person under precautionary quarantine after the individual reported contact with a suspected Ebola case on an aircraft 20 days ago, the hospital announced Thursday.

The person remains asymptomatic, showing no fever, bleeding, vomiting or diarrhoea, and has tested negative for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

Monitoring is continuing in line with World Health Organization and Ministry of Health protocols until the full 21-day observation period ends.

“The individual is being monitored in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Ministry of Health protocols and is awaiting completion of the 21-day monitoring period before being cleared for release. All identified contacts have also been appropriately followed up,” MTRH stated in a press release signed by Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip K. Kirwa.

The hospital stressed that all services remain fully operational with no disruption to patient care. “There is no cause for panic,” the statement indicated.

MTRH says it continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health and other partners to strengthen surveillance, early detection, infection prevention and control, case management and community engagement.

The facility maintains a well-trained multidisciplinary Rapid Response Team and regularly conducts simulation exercises and refresher training for frontline staff.

In addition, the Hospital is intensifying public sensitisation through triage areas, media, religious and community leaders, with particular focus on cross-border communities including long-distance truck drivers.

The aim is to raise awareness of EVD signs and symptoms, prevention measures, early reporting and proper referral.

Members of the public were urged to practise proper hand hygiene, remain vigilant and follow Ministry of Health guidance.

“Anyone experiencing symptoms suggestive of EVD, particularly following contact with a suspected or confirmed case, should promptly seek medical attention and disclose any relevant exposure history to healthcare workers,” the hospital advised.

Dr Kirwa reaffirmed the institution’s commitment “to protecting public health through heightened preparedness, continuous surveillance and coordinated response in line with national and international health protocols.”

By Maurice Aluda