The Ministry of Health (MoH) has announced the receipt of 10,700 doses of the Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) Mpox vaccine to control the ongoing outbreak of the disease in the country. This vaccine shipment is the result of collaborative efforts between the government and international organizations such as the Africa CDC, World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance.
The introduction of the Mpox vaccine is a significant step in the national response to the outbreak, which has seen a sharp rise in cases. Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale emphasized that the vaccine is part of a broader strategy to interrupt the transmission chain and prevent further spread of the virus in the community. The vaccination campaign will supplement other public health measures already in place, including enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, testing of suspected cases, and risk communication efforts to engage the public and raise awareness.
The MVA-BN vaccine, which has shown promising results in reducing the severity of the disease, transmission risk, and mortality, will primarily target high-risk groups rather than the general population. The vaccine’s effectiveness has been estimated at 82 percent when administered in two doses, given four weeks apart. High-risk groups for vaccination include those who have had close contact with confirmed Mpox cases, healthcare workers, and populations in areas with ongoing transmission.
The decision to prioritize these groups is based on the ongoing surge in cases, which has resulted in a 100 percent increase in Mpox cases since December 31, 2024. As of the announcement, the country has confirmed a total of 67 Mpox cases across 13 counties, with the majority of the cases reported in Busia, Mombasa, Nakuru, Makueni, and Bungoma counties. Other affected counties include Nairobi, Kajiado, Taita Taveta, Kericho, Kilifi, Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, and Migori. The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and is taking additional steps to address the outbreak, including maintaining vigilant surveillance at the country’s 26 points of entry.
Of the reported cases, 49 individuals have recovered, 10 are currently hospitalized, and seven are being managed under home-based care. The country has also recorded one fatality, resulting in a case fatality rate of 1.5 percent. In addition to the efforts to control the outbreak through vaccination, the MoH is focusing on educating the public about preventive measures to reduce the spread of Mpox. These measures include avoiding close contact with suspected or confirmed cases, practicing good hygiene such as frequent handwashing, and limiting sexual contacts. Furthermore, individuals experiencing symptoms of Mpox are urged to seek medical attention promptly, self-isolate if necessary, and report any concerns to qualified health personnel.
As part of the ongoing response, the MoH has also implemented enhanced screening measures at points of entry, with over 4 million travelers screened since the outbreak began. Laboratory testing of suspected cases continues, with 485 samples submitted for testing. Out of these, 67 have tested positive for the virus, resulting in a positivity rate of 13.8 percent.
The government has called on all Kenyans to remain vigilant and adhere to public health guidelines to help contain the outbreak. The introduction of the Mpox vaccine is expected to further enhance the country’s efforts in managing the crisis and limiting the spread of the virus.
