The Ministry of Health (MoH) has intensified its response to the Mpox disease following the first reported case in Taita Taveta, a development that has prompted national concern.
The index case, identified as a traveler who passed through multiple East African countries before reaching Kenya, has since made a full recovery.
However, the Ministry has taken swift action to prevent further spread of the disease, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
“Mpox poses a serious public health threat that requires immediate and coordinated international action,” said Dr. Deborah Barasa, Cabinet Secretary for Health. “We are taking every measure to ensure that Kenya remains vigilant and prepared.”
In response to the case, the Ministry has screened 12 individuals who were in contact with the patient, along with six other suspected cases, all of which tested negative for the disease. The patient had traveled from Kampala to Mombasa before entering Rwanda through the Taita Taveta one-stop border point.
To prevent the disease from spreading further, the Ministry has increased surveillance across the country. “We have activated the Public Health Emergency Operation Centers and established Incident Management Teams to monitor the situation closely,” Dr. Barasa explained. “Our healthcare workers have been sensitized on Mpox, and we continue to issue advisories to guide them on case identification and infection prevention control measures.”
In addition to the efforts made within the healthcare system, the Ministry is engaging with communities to raise awareness about the risks and prevention of Mpox. Public health campaigns are being conducted to encourage adherence to preventive measures, such as regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers.
Dr. Barasa emphasized the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of Mpox, which include skin rashes, sore throat, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph glands. “If anyone experiences these symptoms, they should inform those they’ve been in close contact with in the last 21 days and report to the nearest health facility immediately,” she urged. “It’s crucial to cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask when around others to prevent transmission.”
As the MoH continues its efforts to curb the disease, the CS reiterated the need for ongoing vigilance. “We must all adhere to the health guidelines to prevent the spread of Mpox,” she said. “This is not just a government effort; it requires the cooperation of every citizen to protect public health.”
