Duale Protests Saudi Arabia’s Travel Restrictions Over Kenya’s Ebola Outbreak

Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has criticised Saudi Arabia’s decision to restrict travel involving Kenya. He described the measures as excessive and unsupported by the country’s current Ebola situation.

In a statement issued Saturday, October 31, Duale said Kenya had contained the outbreak within one cluster. He added that there was no evidence of community transmission.

“Kenya has noted with concern the extreme measures taken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding the Ebola situation,” Duale stated. He maintained that the restrictions did not reflect the country’s current epidemiological situation.

Kenya Reports Eight Confirmed Infections

The Ministry of Health said all eight confirmed infections were linked to the initial imported case. The cases involved four healthcare workers and four close family members.

Duale said health officials had traced all 135 people who came into contact with the index patient. Of these, 118 had been placed under quarantine as part of containment efforts.

The ministry reported no new infection since October 19. It said the outbreak response was continuing to produce positive results.

Seven patients remained under medical care following two deaths, including the index case. Five patients had initially tested negative after completing treatment and were awaiting second tests.

The repeat tests were scheduled for Monday, November 2. The ministry expected the five patients to be discharged on Tuesday, November 3, if cleared.

More Contacts Expected to Leave Quarantine

The ministry also expected 46 contacts to complete quarantine without developing symptoms. They would join 20 others who had already been released from monitoring.

This would bring the total number of people cleared from quarantine to 66. Health officials continue monitoring contacts as part of the outbreak response.

Kenya Engages Saudi Arabia Over Restrictions

Duale said the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs would continue engaging Saudi authorities. Kenya wants the restrictions reconsidered in light of its containment efforts.

He urged international partners to support Kenya rather than impose isolation or travel restrictions. He also thanked Kenyans for cooperating with public health measures.

“Kenya has demonstrated transparency; what we require from the international community is support and collaboration,” Duale stated.

Saudi Arabia Suspends Travel and Visa Issuance

Saudi Arabia announced the restrictions on Friday, October 30. The measures suspend travel by Saudi citizens to Kenya and halt visa issuance to travellers from Kenya.

The restrictions also affect travellers arriving directly from Kenya or through third countries. They apply to people who stayed in Kenya or another country experiencing an active Ebola outbreak within 21 days before arrival.