Kenya has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat the ongoing Mpox outbreak and address the potential threat of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), as part of a comprehensive response plan outlined by the Ministry of Health on January 23, 2025. This heightened response comes in the wake of the first confirmed cases of Mpox in July 2024, with 36 cases recorded so far. The highest concentrations of these cases have been reported in Nakuru, Mombasa, and Busia, prompting the government to implement targeted measures aimed at controlling the spread of the disease.
In a bid to curb the Mpox outbreak, the Ministry of Health has launched a focused vaccination campaign, prioritizing high-risk groups such as healthcare workers and individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed cases. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the impact of the outbreak, which has raised significant public health concerns. Alongside the vaccination campaign, the Ministry is conducting extensive public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about the disease, its transmission, and preventive measures. These campaigns are designed to counter misinformation and provide the public with accurate, reliable information, particularly concerning the safety and efficacy of the Mpox vaccine.
The Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary Muthoni Muriuki, emphasized the critical role of accurate communication in preventing vaccine hesitancy. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that all communities, especially those at high risk, receive clear and trustworthy information about the vaccine. This is crucial for ensuring the success of the vaccination drive and for fostering public confidence in the government’s response efforts.
In addition to the vaccination campaign, the Ministry of Health is bolstering its surveillance systems to track and monitor the spread of Mpox. This includes enhancing surveillance at the community level and at healthcare facilities, ensuring that suspected cases are quickly identified and isolated. The government is also ensuring that healthcare workers are equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of the virus within medical settings. Training programs are being conducted to ensure that healthcare workers are well-prepared to manage and contain Mpox, with an emphasis on infection control practices and the proper use of PPE.
While the Ministry of Health is focused on controlling the Mpox outbreak, it is also closely monitoring the evolving situation with Marburg Virus Disease, which poses an additional public health threat. The recent outbreak of Marburg in Tanzania’s Kagera region has raised concerns, prompting the Kenyan government to increase its surveillance efforts at border points and other high-risk areas. Marburg is a highly contagious and deadly virus, and its potential spread to neighboring countries has led to heightened vigilance in Kenya.
The Ministry of Health has assured the public that the government is fully prepared for the possibility of a Marburg outbreak. Surveillance at border points has been strengthened, and health authorities are working closely with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to ensure a coordinated response to both the Mpox and Marburg threats. The Ministry is also ensuring that the health system is equipped to respond quickly to any potential Marburg cases, with a focus on preparedness and rapid containment measures.
The government’s response to these health threats underscores its commitment to safeguarding the health of the Kenyan population. In her remarks, Ms. Muthoni reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to strengthening health systems and ensuring that the country remains well-prepared for emerging health risks. She emphasized that the government is working tirelessly to ensure that public health systems are robust enough to handle the challenges posed by both Mpox and Marburg, as well as any future outbreaks.
Kenya’s proactive approach to addressing the Mpox outbreak and preparing for the potential threat of Marburg Virus Disease reflects the government’s determination to protect the health and well-being of its citizens. Through targeted vaccination campaigns, enhanced surveillance, and collaboration with international health organizations, the country is taking comprehensive steps to mitigate the risks posed by these infectious diseases. The Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts are crucial in ensuring that Kenya remains resilient in the face of emerging health threats.
