Kiambu County has stepped up its preparedness against Ebola following reported cases of the Bundibugyo strain in Kenya, with health officials conducting emergency response drills to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.
The exercises are aimed at protecting frontline healthcare workers while ensuring health facilities are adequately prepared to detect, isolate and manage suspected cases.
With healthcare workers considered the first line of defence against infectious diseases, the county health department is strengthening safety protocols through practical Ebola preparedness exercises.
The drills focused on the proper use and removal of Personal Protective Equipment, safe handling of contaminated materials and infection prevention procedures to minimise the risk of exposure.
County Executive Committee Member for Health Services Dr Elias Maina said preparedness must begin before an outbreak occurs, warning that healthcare workers could become victims themselves if safety procedures are not strictly followed.
He cautioned that infections among medical personnel could further expose the wider community to the virus.
The training also covered critical emergency response procedures, including early case detection, patient isolation and quarantine protocols.
Dr Kevin Kahara said the hands-on simulations were designed to equip medical personnel with the practical skills required to handle suspected Ebola cases without putting themselves or other patients at risk.
He added that regular drills are essential in strengthening the health system’s ability to respond to emerging infectious diseases.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid spreading unverified information and promptly report suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
Dr Maina emphasised that early reporting and timely medical intervention are critical in containing possible infections and protecting communities.
The county says the preparedness exercise forms part of wider efforts to strengthen emergency response capacity and ensure healthcare workers are adequately equipped to deal with potential public health threats.
