The Ministry of Health has confirmed a second case of Mpox outbreak in the country involving a an adult male truck driver at the port screening desk at the Malaba One Stop Border post in Busia county.
According to MOH, the second case was confirmed through a laboratory screening. This is after a total of forty-two (42) samples had been submitted to laboratories for Mpox disease testing and forty (40) samples provided tested negative for the disease.
“The patient has been isolated and is under active management in one of our Health facilities in Busia County,” said CS Deborah.
The patient in the new case had noticeable symptoms of the disease. It is said that the truck driver has a history of travel to DRC, the epicentre of the disease.
MOH has made sure that active surveillance for possible cases in the area is further improved. To guarantee that the disease spreads, this also encompasses all counties.
Earlier on, MOH ensured that the first case reported which also involved a truck driver was successfully handled ensuring that the patient fully recovered. The patient had completed a 21-day follow-up period without developing symptoms and was discharged from active follow-up.
The Ministry has expressed its deep gratitude to Kenyans for their unwavering cooperation and active commitment in the fight against Mpox. This has been successful due to the measures issued by the government and have been observed by Kenyans.
“MOH has ensured that the disease is taken seriously by installing screening facilities at the borders. In turn, a total of 426,438 travellers at various entry points of the country have been tested,”
Health facilities across the country have also been adequately staffed and well equipped. This will help in the management of the disease by making it easily identified.
MOH advises the public not to panic about the circumstances. The public has been advised to adhere to certain public health precautions.
Kenyans are advised to wash their hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol and hand sanitizer. This will help in preventing the spread of the disease.
They should also maintain proper hygiene and stay away from people who appear to be experiencing the signs of the measles. It’s also crucial to refrain from sharing private goods like towels, cutlery, or garments.
In the event that a loved one has the mpox or has come into touch with someone who has, MOH has recommended Kenyans to seek medical attention at the closest hospital. Additionally, they should abstain from consuming uninspected Wild animal foods and meat products will aid in the disease’s prevention.
Kenyans have been assured by CS Mlongo that they will be informed of any updates regarding the illness. It is recommended that they look for precise information on the Ministry’s website and from licensed medical providers.
“Let us all be vigilant and continue adhering to the preventive measures to keep our families and our nation safe,” added CS Mlongo.
MOH has pledged to keep up its vigilance in the fight against malaria. It has said that it will keep an eye on the circumstances and take all required action to protect everyone in Kenya’s health and well-being.
