FACT CHECK: Truth Behind Viral Claims of Health Ministry Banning Hotel Meetings Over Ebola

The Ministry of Health has clarified that the suspension of meetings, conferences and seminars held in hotels applies exclusively to staff of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards.

In a statement dated October 10,  the department said the internal administrative measure was intended to ensure technical officers remained available to support ongoing emergency response operations amid efforts to contain Ebola and prevent further transmission.

“The State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards wishes to clarify that the suspension of meetings, conferences and seminars held in hotels applies exclusively to staff of the State Department. This internal administrative measure is intended to ensure the availability of technical officers to support ongoing emergency response operations,” read part of the statement.

Ministry of Health Clarifies Hotel Meeting Ban, Says It Applies Only to Health Staff

According to the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, the measure prioritises emergency preparedness, contact tracing and response activities aimed at containing the virus.

The department said the suspension would help ensure technical officers are available to support ongoing operations while facilitating the implementation of established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Also Read: SHA Gives Healthcare Providers One-Month Extension to Submit 5 Key Documents

These procedures guide the prevention, preparedness and management of Ebola and other highly contagious infectious diseases.

It further highlighted that the measure does not amount to a blanket suspension of government meetings, conferences or seminars held in hotels.

Therefore, the ministry of health argued that the restriction applies only to staff of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards and should not be interpreted as a directive affecting all government departments and agencies.

“The measure prioritises emergency preparedness, contact tracing and response activities to contain the virus and prevent further transmission. It also facilitates the implementation of established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the prevention, preparedness and management of Ebola and other highly contagious infectious diseases,” read part of the statement.

As part of efforts to raise awareness about the disease, the Ministry of Health has urged Kenyans to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection.

In a public health advisory, the ministry warned people against direct contact with the body fluids of anyone suspected or confirmed to have Ebola.

“Avoid direct contact with the body fluids of anyone suspected or confirmed to have Ebola. For guidance, call 719,” the advisory stated.

The ministry also emphasised the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infections.

“Clean hands help prevent Ebola. Wash often with soap and water, or use 70% alcohol-based hand sanitiser. For guidance, call 719,” the notice added.

Earlier Directive Suspended Government Meetings in Hotels

The clarification comes hours after reports emerged that the ministry had suspended all government meetings, seminars and conferences scheduled to take place in hotels following confirmation of an imported case of Bundibugyo virus disease in Kenya.

Also Read: Ministry of Health Clarifies Travel Health Insurance Requirements for Foreigners Entering Kenya

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni is reportedly said to have directed heads of directorates, divisions and programmes to suspend the meetings with immediate effect.

“Following confirmation of an imported case of Bundibugyo virus disease, the State Department is prioritising emergency preparedness, contact tracing and response measures,” the notice read.

The suspension is expected to remain in force until further communication is issued by the relevant authorities.

“Accordingly, all meetings, seminars and conferences scheduled to be held in hotels are suspended with immediate effect from Wednesday, 7th October 2026, until further notice,” the notice added.

Reports further noted that ministry of health directed any department seeking an exception to obtain prior approval from the Principal Secretary’s office.

Government officials were also urged to adhere to established safety procedures as health authorities prioritise measures to manage the disease.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

A photo of Ebola PPE. PHOTO/Talk Africa