Kenya has increased its vigilance through a decisive action and robust partnerships in its preparedness and response to Mpox after there has been a reported rise in cases across Africa.
According to Director General of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, the reason for calling for urgency of decisive action and robust partnerships is after drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic which had become a worldwide pandemic.
“Taking action now is essential to protect our population and prevent a potential outbreak,” said Dr. Amoth, Director General of Health.
Although there haven’t been any new cases of Mpox in the nation since the initial case was reported, MOH is still keeping an eye on the confirmed case and conducting investigations in case there are any more.
The Mpox outbreak was first reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC) and later spread in other African countries like Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.
Earlier on, MOH had issued response measured to be taken by Kenyans after the confirmation of a case of a truck driver infected by Mpox had been reported.
There was a stakeholder meeting that was held the focus being the enhancement of Kenya’s national response strategy to Mpox. Key measures to be taken into action were highlighted during the meeting.
“Some of the key measures include rapid laboratory testing, community engagement, infection prevention control and comprehensive case management,”
Dr. Amoth underscored the importance of monitoring entry points in the country in order to control any potential spread of the disease urging all partners to collaborate in strengthening Kenya’s preparedness in safeguarding public health and safety.
MOH has called for a proper coordination and communication. This will help in strengthening of the response strategy to Mpox. It will also ensure the safety of Kenyans.
