NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has confirmed a total of 137 Mpox cases in Kenya, marking a concerning rise in infections beyond the country’s traditional high-risk zones.
In a statement released Tuesday, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the outbreak now spans 17 counties, with Busia (48 cases), Mombasa (37), and Nakuru (16) reporting the highest numbers.
Other affected regions include Makueni (10), Nairobi (5), Kajiado (3), Bungoma (3), and Taita Taveta (2), among others.
The new data shows the virus is spreading away from the Northern transport corridor—an area historically linked to earlier cases—and into more diverse parts of the country.
At least 400 close contacts of infected persons have been identified, with 315 monitored for the full 21-day observation period. Fifteen of those contacts later tested positive.
“Mpox samples are being tested at the National Public Health Laboratory and partner labs,” PS Muthoni said, noting that 597 samples have been tested since the outbreak began.
In response to the rising numbers, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with county governments, has stepped up its containment measures.
These include active case search, contact tracing, and management of confirmed infections, along with ramped-up public health campaigns.
Over 4.8 million travelers have so far been screened at the country’s points of entry to prevent further spread.
In addition, 15 million SMS alerts have been sent via Safaricom to raise awareness, with citizens encouraged to access free prevention tips by calling 719 or dialing *719#.
“The Ministry remains committed to controlling the Mpox virus outbreak and protecting the health and safety of all Kenyans,” PS Muthoni said. “We appreciate the continued efforts by the public in helping us combat this outbreak.”
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact and often presents with flu-like symptoms and skin rashes.
Though most cases are mild, it can become serious in vulnerable populations without timely care.
