NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has confirmed five new Mpox cases this week, raising the national tally to 28 cases across 12 counties.
The latest infections were reported in Nakuru (3 cases) and Mombasa (2 cases), counties that now account for the highest cumulative numbers—Nakuru (9) and Mombasa (6).
Other affected counties include Kajiado, Bungoma, and Nairobi, each with two cases, while Taita Taveta, Busia, Kiambu, Makueni, Kericho, Uasin Gishu, and Kilifi each report a single case.
The Ministry stated that of the 28 total confirmed cases, 17 patients have fully recovered, while eight remain under medical care.
Two individuals are in self-isolation, and one death has been recorded since the outbreak began in July 2024.
Health officials have identified 204 contacts linked to confirmed cases.
Out of these, 147 have completed the mandatory 21-day follow-up period, while 50 remain under active surveillance. Seven of the contacts have also tested positive for Mpox.
Efforts to curb the spread include ongoing screening at points of entry, where over 2.2 million travelers have been screened since the outbreak began.
The National Public Health Laboratory has so far tested 322 samples, of which 28 turned positive, 292 were negative, and two results are pending.
The Ministry has urged county governments and stakeholders to intensify public awareness campaigns and emphasize preventive measures, which include:
- Avoiding close contact with suspected cases or their personal belongings
- Refraining from sharing personal items
- Limiting the number of sexual partners
- Practicing good hygiene, including regular handwashing or use of sanitizer
- Promptly reporting symptoms to health facilities
To contain further transmission, infected individuals are advised to self-isolate until they fully recover.
The Ministry emphasized the importance of vigilance across counties and urged the public to adhere to health guidelines to halt the spread of the disease.
