Doctors discharged Kenya’s last Ebola patient on November 11. Kenyans are now counting down the 42 days until authorities can declare the country Ebola-free. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo still struggles to contain the virus.
The current Ebola outbreak began in mid-May, with Congo at the center. The virus has infected around 11,000 people. Sadly, more than 5,300 people have died from it. It’s the worst outbreak in Congo in history. The virus first appeared there in 1976.
The Bundibugyo strain of the virus caused the current outbreak. Doctors have no effective vaccine against this strain. It has spread to eight of Kenya’s 26 provinces.
Kenya recorded nine cases in October. The first patient traveled from Congo through Uganda and into Kenya. The virus spread from him to four family members and four healthcare workers. That patient and his mother died, but the other seven patients recovered.
The 42-day period is twice the amount of time someone would have to quarantine. If no new infections arise, Kenya will be officially Ebola-free just two days before Christmas. The Ministry of Health tracked the first patient’s contact list to confirm no one else contracted the disease from him.
Ebola affects Congo and Kenya in more ways than just causing sickness. The virus fuels increased distrust and violence in Congo. A health system crisis, armed conflicts, poor roads, and violence among citizens make the country’s recovery difficult.
In Kenya, workers face travel restrictions. Saudi Arabia suspended work visas for Kenyans in an effort to keep Ebola out of that country. Kenya’s Health Ministry is trying to convince Saudi Arabia to reopen its borders so workers can earn needed money. An Ebola-free declaration may help. Health Minister Aden Duale says Kenya will continue using prevention and safety measures.
We can hope in the Lord. Pray that He would bring healing to those suffering. Thank Him for healing the people in Kenya.
The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. — James 5:16
