Two suspected cases of Mpox reported in Kisumu county have tested negative.
The results are a relief to the county as it ramps up its preparedness and response measures
The two cases according to the Health CEC Gregory Ganda involved a 2-year-old child and a 15-year-old teenager from Kisumu East Sub-county
The two were tested at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital(JOOTRH) and were confirmed negative by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
Ganda noted that the county is taking measures and has already activated the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) to streamline the country's response to any potential Mpox case.
In addition, Ganda said the Rapid Response Teams(RRTs) at both the county and Sub-county levels have been activated and trained on Mpox protocols.
"This training will be cascaded to other healthcare workers across the county to ensure they are well-prepared."
Ganda added that to ensure that all cases are detected and reported promptly, they have widely circulated Mpox case definitions (suspected, probable, and confirmed) to all surveillance officers and health providers.
"We have also developed a digital screening tool and circulated it to health providers," he said.
"We have set up an isolation ward at Kisumu County Referral Hospital (KCRH) and a holding isolation ward at all Sub-County and County hospitals to manage any suspected Cases."
The county health Boss noted that they are also in the process of developing a working contingency plan to guide their response and ensure all protocols are in place".
Ganda disclosed that they have established a testing protocol, including specimen collection and referral at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) laboratory.
"We are working on a comprehensive risk communication strategy to keep the public informed on the evolving situation and updated on preventive measures. We assure the public of our preparedness and remain committed to keeping the public informed and safe as we navigate this situation," he said.
The Mpox epidemic has been affecting multiple African countries for the past two years.
On July 31, 2024, Kenya reported its first case of Mpox.
As of August 24, 2024, two cases of Mpox have been confirmed in the country.
