The Ministry of Health urges the public to enhance hygiene and preventive measures in response to the recent increase in Mpox cases nationwide.
During a briefing on Monday morning, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, highlighted that the MPOX virus continues to pose a significant threat to the nation. She encourages all Kenyans to remain vigilant and adopt necessary precautions.
She stressed the importance of maintaining vigilant surveillance, promoting vaccination, raising public awareness, and practicing good hygiene to effectively reduce transmission rates.
As reported by PS Muthoni, Kenya has documented 1,298 confirmed Mpox cases and 19 fatalities across 40 counties. Mombasa leads with the highest number of cases at 452, followed by Nairobi with 320 and Busia with 115.
Currently, seven counties, particularly those along the transport corridor, face the highest risk of the virus, which has resulted in 19 lives lost.
Mombasa tops the list of affected counties, followed by Nairobi, and includes Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi, and Nakuru.
In light of this, the meeting underscored the necessity for ongoing public education and enhanced screening at all border points throughout the country.
While there are no confirmed cases of the Ebola virus within the country, PS Muthoni assured that precautionary measures are in place to prevent any potential entry of the virus.
Regarding the anticipated El Niño weather pattern, the Ministry of Health announced a stakeholder meeting scheduled for this Wednesday to evaluate its potential impact and strategize accordingly.
The PS indicated that approximately 18 counties remain at heightened risk from the effects of El Niño, which may increase the likelihood of waterborne diseases among Kenyans.
The meeting also established a comprehensive plan aimed at protecting Kenyans and ensuring effective disease mitigation and public sensitization in preparation for and during the upcoming rains, which have historically caused significant disruption.
