The World Health Organization declared the end of the Ebola Sudan virus disease outbreak in Uganda on 27 August 2026, following the standard 42-day countdown from the last confirmed negative test. The outbreak, which began in the Kyotera district of southern Uganda in June 2026, was contained entirely within Uganda. No confirmed cases were recorded in Kenya or any other neighbouring country.
What This Means for Travellers to Kenya and East Africa
For visitors to Kenya — whether arriving for a Masai Mara safari, a coast break in Diani or Mombasa, or a Nairobi city trip — the outbreak has no practical bearing on travel plans. Kenya’s health authorities implemented precautionary entry screening at the Uganda border crossings and at JKIA during the outbreak period. Those measures are now being stood down.
Cross-border travel between Kenya and Uganda — including the popular overland route via Busia and Malaba — is operating normally. The Uganda Safari Circuit (including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park) is fully operational.
Background on the Outbreak
The 2026 outbreak involved the Sudan strain of Ebola, which is less transmissible than the Zaire strain associated with major outbreaks in West and Central Africa in previous years. Uganda’s health system responded rapidly, drawing on protocols developed during previous Ebola outbreaks in 2011, 2019, and 2022. The WHO praised Uganda’s response capacity in its end-of-outbreak declaration.
The total number of confirmed and probable cases remained small, all within a contained geographic area of southern Uganda well away from the Uganda-Kenya border crossings and international tourism corridors.
Health Considerations for East Africa Generally
Ebola aside, travellers to Kenya and Uganda should note the standard regional health recommendations that apply year-round:
- Malaria remains a risk in game reserve areas including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and the Kenya coast. Prophylaxis (typically atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline) and insect repellent are recommended. Nairobi itself is malaria-free.
- Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Kenya if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Check requirements for your nationality and travel history.
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly advisable for all visitors to East Africa.
For full practical guidance on health, vaccinations, and safety in Kenya, see our practical guides. Our wildlife section covers the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, and Kenya’s other major wildlife destinations, and our things-to-do section has everything from safari planning to beach options on the Kenyan coast.