NAIROBI, Kenya – Health officials have confirmed two new cases of Mpox in Nakuru and Mombasa counties, bringing the total number of cases in Kenya to 31 since the outbreak began in July 2024.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni made the announcement, revealing that the virus has now spread across 12 counties.
Nakuru leads with 10 reported cases, followed by Mombasa with eight, and Nairobi with two.
“A total of 217 contacts have been identified, 204 of whom have been monitored for 21 days. Nine contacts tested positive for Mpox, and four are still under follow-up,” Muthoni disclosed.
To contain the outbreak, health authorities have screened more than 2.6 million travellers at Points of Entry.
So far, 351 suspected Mpox samples have been tested at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and other partner labs, yielding 31 positive results — an 8.8% positivity rate.
In response to rising cases, the Ministry of Health has deployed multidisciplinary rapid response teams to hotspot counties.
These teams are actively searching for new cases, tracing contacts, and managing symptomatic patients. Support measures also include mental health and psychosocial assistance for affected individuals and communities.
Muthoni emphasized the importance of public vigilance in preventing the spread of Mpox.
“Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a rash resembling Mpox. Do not share bedding, towels, or clothing with infected individuals. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser,” she advised.
Additionally, she urged Kenyans to stay informed through credible sources, including the Ministry of Health’s website and hotlines.
The Ministry has intensified risk communication and community engagement campaigns to educate the public about Mpox prevention and control.
These efforts aim to dispel misinformation and encourage communities to adopt safer practices.
Mpox, which presents with fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash, spreads primarily through close physical contact.
Health officials advise seeking medical care promptly if symptoms appear.
For accurate updates and guidance, Kenyans can visit www.health.go.ke or call the Ministry’s hotlines at 719, 0729 47 14 14, or 0732 35 35 35.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni made the announcement, revealing that the virus has now spread across 12 counties.
Nakuru leads with 10 reported cases, followed by Mombasa with eight, and Nairobi with two.
“A total of 217 contacts have been identified, 204 of whom have been monitored for 21 days. Nine contacts tested positive for Mpox, and four are still under follow-up,” Muthoni disclosed.
To contain the outbreak, health authorities have screened more than 2.6 million travellers at Points of Entry.
So far, 351 suspected Mpox samples have been tested at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and other partner labs, yielding 31 positive results — an 8.8% positivity rate.
In response to rising cases, the Ministry of Health has deployed multidisciplinary rapid response teams to hotspot counties.
These teams are actively searching for new cases, tracing contacts, and managing symptomatic patients. Support measures also include mental health and psychosocial assistance for affected individuals and communities.
Muthoni emphasized the importance of public vigilance in preventing the spread of Mpox.
“Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a rash resembling Mpox. Do not share bedding, towels, or clothing with infected individuals. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser,” she advised.
Additionally, she urged Kenyans to stay informed through credible sources, including the Ministry of Health’s website and hotlines.
The Ministry has intensified risk communication and community engagement campaigns to educate the public about Mpox prevention and control.
These efforts aim to dispel misinformation and encourage communities to adopt safer practices.
Mpox, which presents with fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash, spreads primarily through close physical contact.
Health officials advise seeking medical care promptly if symptoms appear.
For accurate updates and guidance, Kenyans can visit www.health.go.ke or call the Ministry’s hotlines at 719, 0729 47 14 14, or 0732 35 35 35.
