NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has confirmed five new cases of Mpox, bringing the national tally to 36 cases across 12 counties.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muriuki, in a statement on Monday, revealed that the latest cases were reported in Kericho (1) and Taita Taveta (1) on January 17, 2025, and in Busia (2) and Kilifi (1) on January 21, 2025.
“The most recent cases, as reported on January 21, 2025, are Busia (2 cases) and Kilifi (1 case),” Muriuki said.
Nakuru remains the county with the highest number of cases at 10, followed by Mombasa with 8, and Busia with 3.
Other counties reporting two cases each include Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Kericho, and Kilifi, while Makueni, Kiambu, and Uasin Gishu have reported one case each.
The Ministry of Health has emphasized its preparedness to manage the outbreak.
Muriuki assured the public that a robust surveillance system is in place to promptly detect potential cases.
“This includes close monitoring of travellers, especially those coming from countries where there is an active outbreak, and the provision of timely information to healthcare providers and the general public across the country,” she said.
To bolster the response, the ministry is collaborating with global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, to enhance the country’s capacity to manage the disease.
Key measures include equipping health workers with personal protective equipment (PPE), strengthening diagnostic capabilities in laboratories, and conducting public awareness campaigns.
“We have also initiated public awareness campaigns through community engagements with key populations, social and mass media, and dissemination of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials to educate the general public on how to protect themselves from the disease,” Muriuki added.
The PS urged Kenyans to adopt preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene and maintaining high standards of cleanliness, particularly in the hospitality industry, to curb the spread of Mpox.
The Ministry of Health continues to advise vigilance and cooperation as it works to contain the disease and protect public health.
