The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has intensified preparedness measures to support the country’s response against a possible Ebola outbreak, with efforts focusing on laboratory testing, production of disinfectants, and establishment of isolation facilities.
Speaking after inspecting Port Health services at the Busia border point and Alupe Sub-County Hospital, KEMRI Acting Vice Chancellor and CEO Prof. Elijah Songok said the institute has enhanced its readiness to support national response teams in handling Ebola cases.
Prof. Songok said KEMRI has identified key areas of intervention, including strengthening laboratory testing and confirmation of cases through its six high-level laboratories across the country.
“We have identified areas where KEMRI can help, including strengthening laboratory testing and confirmation. The virus is handled in BSL-3 laboratories located in Kilifi, Kericho, Kisumu, and Nairobi,” he said.
He added that KEMRI is increasing production of disinfectants and working on testing kits to ensure the country is prepared in case of an outbreak.
“We are ramping up production of disinfectants for hospitals and port health facilities handling suspected cases. We are also working on testing kits so that we are ready to handle any cases,” he said.
The acting VC emphasized the need for well-equipped isolation units to contain outbreaks and protect healthcare workers and the public.
He noted that KEMRI is working with stakeholders to establish hospitals with high-level containment wards and revealed that wards at Alupe Sub-County Hospital will be renovated to improve preparedness.
Prof. Songok said lessons learned from previous outbreaks have improved the country’s preparedness and response capacity.
He also called for enhanced screening at border points and porous entry routes, saying community awareness and multi-sectoral collaboration are critical in fighting the disease.
“This requires a multi-sectoral approach. We need to improve communication and community awareness because the community plays a major role in fighting the pandemic,” he said.
Prof. Songok further proposed the establishment of dedicated isolation centres separate from hospitals to reduce stigma and disruption of normal health services during outbreaks.
