The Ministry of Health has confirmed two new Mpox cases, bringing the national total to 33 since the outbreak began. The latest cases were reported in Kericho and Taita Taveta Counties.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni revealed this in an update on the Mpox situation in Kenya, emphasizing the government’s proactive measures to curb the outbreak. She disclosed that a total of 225 contacts had been identified, with 216 of them monitored for the recommended 21-day period. Of these, nine individuals tested positive for Mpox.
“Suspected Mpox samples are tested at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and other partner laboratories. So far, 379 samples have been tested, with 33 returning positive results,” Muthoni stated.
In a bid to control the spread of the disease, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments and partners, has enhanced surveillance efforts. This includes active case searches, contact listing, tracing, investigations, and the symptomatic management of confirmed cases. Muthoni also highlighted that mental health and psychosocial support are being provided to those infected and affected.
Additionally, she noted that significant efforts have been directed at monitoring points of entry into the country. To date, 2.9 million travellers have been screened, with suspected cases flagged for further testing.
Heightened Precautions in Schools
The reopening of schools has raised concerns about the increased risk of Mpox transmission among children, who are considered particularly vulnerable to severe illness. Muthoni stressed the importance of safeguarding the health of students, stating, “Children are at an increased risk of severe illness from Mpox. To address this, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is enhancing health education in schools and implementing preventive measures.”
These measures include educating school communities about Mpox symptoms, transmission modes, and prevention strategies. The focus is on fostering hygienic practices, such as regular handwashing, as well as early detection and isolation of suspected cases within educational institutions.
Public Awareness and Response Efforts
To accelerate the national response, authorities are conducting awareness campaigns in the most affected counties. The campaigns aim to educate the public about Mpox, debunk myths, and encourage timely reporting of suspected cases.
The Ministry is also coordinating with healthcare providers to ensure adequate resources for diagnosis and treatment. Isolation facilities have been established in affected areas, and frontline health workers are being trained to manage cases effectively.
The government continues to call for vigilance among the public, urging individuals to report unusual rashes or symptoms to healthcare facilities immediately.
As the nation battles Mpox, the Ministry of Health reiterates its commitment to protecting public health through enhanced surveillance, timely response measures, and public education to mitigate the spread of the virus.
