Border patrols key to monitor Mpox spread, says ACK bishop

Anglican Church of Kenya Katakwa Diocese Bishop John Okude has urged the governments to increase patrols along the Busia and Malaba border points to monitor Mpox spread.

Speaking at Chakol South Ward in Teso South, Bishop Okude said Kenya should not under estimate the dangers posed by Mpox which is a global pandemic.

“The two governments should marshall all machinery to manage the border instead, noting that the disease is more fatal than Covid-19," he said.

The clergy added that,“With Democratic Republic of Congo having reported over 450 infected persons and 55 deaths, Kenya should take precaution measure to mitigate this.”

He challenged Malaba residents who interact with travellers from affected countries to be more cautions.

Direct contact can happen during intimacy. It can also happen during prolonged face-to-face interactions (such as talking or breathing) and touching objects.

Mpox virus can spread through contact with objects, fabrics and surfaces that have not been disinfected after use by someone with the virus. This includes items like clothing, bedding, towels, fetish gear, or sex toys.

Some people can spread Mpox from one to four days before they have symptoms.

Currently, no evidence suggests that asymptomatic people can spread the virus. CDC is monitoring the latest information about how the virus spreads.

Mpox can also be spread through direct or close contact with an infected animal, fluids or waste, or getting bitten or scratched.

It can also happen during activities like hunting, trapping, or processing infected wild animals in areas where Mpox is endemic.

People are less likely to get Mpox from a pet, but it’s possible.

Close contact with a pet that is infected, including petting, cuddling, hugging, kissing, licking and sharing sleeping spaces or food, can spread the virus to a person.

To reduce the risk of spreading Mpox between animals and people, avoid close contact with an animal that might have the virus.