Kenya is now equipped with additional diagnostic tools to enhance testing and response efforts. This comes in the wake of a tragic death related to the disease, underscoring the urgent need for rapid and effective diagnostic capabilities. As of now, the country has confirmed a total of 13 mpox cases, with reported infections spread across multiple counties, including Nakuru, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Busia, Nairobi, Mombasa, Makueni, and Kericho.
Understanding Mpox and Its Impact
Mpox, a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, has garnered increased attention due to its potential to spread among populations with limited immunity. The disease can lead to severe health complications and has already claimed its first victim in Kenya, emphasizing the critical need for swift interventions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the severity of the outbreak, categorizing it as a public health emergency of international concern.
As the number of confirmed cases rises, the Kenyan Ministry of Health has been proactive in seeking solutions to bolster its testing capabilities. WHO’s recent inclusion of two additional mpox diagnostic tools under its Emergency Use Listing (EUL) procedure marks a pivotal development in the fight against this disease.
New Testing Tools for Mpox
The two newly listed diagnostic tools are the Xpert mpox test, manufactured by Cepheid, and the cobas MPXV assay, developed by Roche Molecular Systems.
- Xpert mpox Test: This real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is designed for use on GeneXpert systems. One of its standout features is the rapid turnaround time, delivering results in under 40 minutes. The simplicity of the test allows for easy administration, and the process is fully automated once the cartridge is inserted into the system. This test detects the viral DNA of monkeypox virus clade II, providing healthcare workers with a reliable and timely diagnostic option. The GeneXpert system supports near-point-of-care testing, facilitating decentralized testing capabilities that can be crucial in remote or resource-limited settings.
- Cobas MPXV Assay: This PCR-based test is intended for use on the cobas 6800/8800 Systems and can process multiple samples simultaneously. The assay has a slightly longer processing time of around two hours but is well-suited for clinical laboratories that handle high volumes of tests. Its ability to detect various mpox clades further enhances its utility in effectively monitoring and managing the outbreak.
Both diagnostic tools are essential in enabling health authorities to quickly identify and isolate cases, ultimately aiding in the containment of the virus’s spread.
WHO’s Commitment and Global Context
Dr. Rogerio Gaspar, WHO’s director for regulation and prequalification, highlighted the importance of ensuring global access to mpox diagnostic tests that meet WHO standards for quality, safety, and performance. The swift availability of these tools is crucial not only for prompt diagnosis and timely treatment but also for effectively managing outbreaks.
Globally, mpox remains a pressing concern. Over 40,000 suspected cases have been reported across 18 countries this year, with many remaining unconfirmed due to limited testing capacity, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Democratic Republic of the Congo, the hardest-hit nation, has seen a significant increase in testing, aided by WHO and partner efforts to decentralize testing. However, only about 40-50% of suspected cases have been tested, illustrating the ongoing challenges in combating the disease.
Support for NTDs and Mpox in Kenya
In addition to enhancing mpox testing capabilities, WHO has also played a vital role in supporting Kenya’s broader public health initiatives. Recently, the organization donated over 15 million tablets to the Kenyan Ministry of Health for the treatment of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) alongside mpox diagnostics. This substantial donation, valued at approximately Sh213 million, is aimed at facilitating a mass drug administration targeting more than 15 million people across 15 counties.
The focus areas include regions with the highest burden of these diseases, particularly in the Coastal region, Lake Victoria basin, and Western regions of Kenya. The donated medicines consist of 7.8 million Mebendazole tablets, 7.2 million Praziquantel tablets, 444,000 Diethylcarbamazine Citrate tablets, and 177,000 Albendazole tablets. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to public health, addressing multiple health challenges simultaneously.
Conclusion
As Kenya grapples with the mpox outbreak, the introduction of advanced diagnostic tools and WHO’s continued support presents a ray of hope in controlling the disease’s spread. The proactive measures taken by the Kenyan government, coupled with international assistance, are vital in ensuring a robust response to the current health crisis. Rapid access to reliable testing options will not only facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment but also contribute to effective containment strategies, ultimately safeguarding public health in Kenya and beyond.
The fight against mpox underscores the importance of investing in health infrastructure and preparedness, enabling nations to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging infectious diseases.
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