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Kenya records two new Mpox cases

The total number of confirmed Mpox cases now stands at 12.

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by Allan Kisia

News04 October 2024 - 16:48
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In Summary



    The government has confirmed two new cases of Mpox.

    The Ministry of Health said the total number of confirmed cases across the country now stands at 12.

    Health CS Deborah Barasa said Mpox cases have been confirmed in Nakuru (two), Kajiado (two), Taita Taveta (one), Busia (one), Nairobi (one), Mombasa (one), Makueni (one), Bungoma (one), Kericho (one) and Kilifi (one).

    “Of the confirmed cases, five are currently in management, and seven have fully recovered. We are pleased to report that no deaths have been recorded among the confirmed cases,” she said.

    In a statement, the CS added that 68 contacts have been identified, 60 of whom have completed the required 21-day follow-up.

    “Two contacts have tested positive for Mpox, and six (6) others remain under active follow-up,” she said.

    The CS noted that in the past 24 hours, a total of 15,269 travellers have been screened for Mpox at various Points of Entry (POEs), bringing the cumulative number to 1,161,622.

    She said the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) has received 230 samples for testing, of which 12 have tested positive; 217 have returned negative results, and one is pending results.

    “We urge all Kenyans to remain vigilant and continue observing the Mpox preventive measures outlined by the Ministry of Health; avoid close contact with infected individuals or their items, limit the number of sexual partners to reduce exposure, and maintain good hygiene by frequent hand washing or using hand sanitiser,” she said.

    “Should you observe any suspected symptoms or cases, please report them immediately by dialling the toll-free number 719.”

    The CS thanked county governments for their “unwavering support and cooperation.”

    Barasa also said no Marburg cases have been reported in the country.

    She said symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhoea, rashes, difficulty swallowing and bleeding from body openings.

    “We have heightened surveillance activities and urge the public to remain vigilant,” she said.


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