Kenya is set to introduce Mpox vaccinations targeting high-risk groups following the confirmation of five new cases, raising the national tally to 36. The move aims to curb the spread of the virus, which has now affected 12 counties.
Among the hardest-hit regions, Nakuru leads with 10 reported cases. Other counties with significant infections include Mombasa (8 cases) and Busia (3 cases). Additional cases have been reported in Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Kericho, Kilifi (2 cases each), and one case each in Makueni, Kiambu, and Uasin Gishu.
Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary Muthoni, emphasized the urgency of the vaccination campaign during a media sensitization meeting. “To strengthen ongoing prevention measures, the Ministry is set to roll out Mpox vaccination targeting high-risk groups such as contacts of confirmed cases and populations most at risk,” she announced.
The latest cases were identified in Kericho, Taita Taveta, Busia, and Kilifi between January 17 and January 21, 2025. Ms. Muthoni highlighted the need for vigilance, noting that the virus poses a significant threat not only in Kenya but also across the East African region.
In addition to vaccinations, the Ministry of Health is ramping up public awareness campaigns and preparing for potential scenarios involving new cases. Ms. Muthoni assured the public that Kenya is in close communication with global health bodies and regional counterparts to adopt best practices in managing the outbreak.
Heightened Surveillance for Marburg Virus
The Ministry of Health has also intensified monitoring efforts after Tanzania confirmed a case of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in Kagera. While no cases have been reported in Kenya, precautionary measures are in place to safeguard public health.
As schools reopen, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, including water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives.
Ms. Muthoni also appealed to the media for support in raising awareness and combating misinformation. “The media plays a critical role in ensuring accurate information about Mpox prevention and vaccination reaches the public,” she stated.
Stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa CDC, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), have pledged continued support to Kenya’s efforts in combating Mpox and other diseases.
The Ministry of Health remains committed to ensuring the safety of all Kenyans as it intensifies its response to the evolving public health challenges.
