Experts Warn Next 72 Hours Are Crucial in Ebola Response

By Jaqueline

Health experts have warned that the next 72 hours will be critical in preventing the spread of Ebola following the confirmation of a case in Nairobi involving a traveller from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The patient had travelled from the DRC through Uganda before arriving in Kenya and later developed symptoms associated with the virus. The case has raised questions about Kenya’s preparedness, particularly regarding screening, laboratory testing, contact tracing and isolation of suspected patients.

Laboratory medicine specialist Dr Ahmed Kalebi said confirming Ebola requires more than simply detecting symptoms. A suspected case must be properly investigated using an appropriate specimen, reliable laboratory testing and quality-control procedures.

Experts also noted that Ebola symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses common in the region, including malaria, typhoid and other viral infections. This makes proper laboratory confirmation and a detailed travel history essential.

The incubation period for Ebola can range from two to 21 days, meaning health officials must establish where an infected person has travelled and identify people they may have come into contact with before showing symptoms.

Health authorities have therefore been urged to intensify contact tracing and surveillance, while carefully reviewing the patient’s movements, healthcare visits and possible exposure to infected individuals.

Experts have also cautioned healthcare workers, relatives and caregivers against unnecessary contact with the body fluids of suspected or confirmed patients. Proper protective equipment, safe specimen collection and appropriate handling of bodies are considered essential in reducing the risk of further transmission.

Kenya’s existing surveillance systems, laboratory capacity, isolation facilities and trained healthcare workers are expected to play a key role in responding to the threat.

Authorities have emphasized the importance of quickly identifying suspected cases, isolating them, notifying public-health teams, conducting laboratory tests and communicating results promptly.Experts say the response should involve the entire public-health system, including clinicians, laboratory personnel, transport teams, cleaners and mortuary workers.

They argue that every person involved in handling a suspected case must receive proper protection and training.The situation also highlights the importance of transparent communication with the public.

Health officials are expected to provide accurate information while avoiding unnecessary panic.The main priority, experts say, is rapid detection, effective contact tracing, safe handling of patients and continuous surveillance to prevent the virus from spreading further.