Confirmed Mpox cases reported to WHO
Cases surged significantly throughout the year (Dec 2023 - Nov 2024) with numbers peaking at over 2,000.
18d agoWILLIAM WANYOIKEInfographics
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the number of Mpox cases has risen to 33.
In a status update on Friday, Public Health PS Mary Muriuki reported two additional cases in Kericho and Taita Taveta counties.
“This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 33 since the outbreak began,” she said.
The cases have been reported across 12 counties: Nakuru (10), Mombasa (8), Nairobi (2), Kajiado (2), Bungoma (2), Taita Taveta (2), Kericho (2), Busia (1), Makueni (1), Kilifi (1), Kiambu (1), and Uasin Gishu (1).
Muriuki also stated that 225 contacts have been identified, with 216 of them having been monitored for the recommended 21-day period.
Out of these, nine contacts have tested positive for Mpox.
To date, over 2.9 million travellers have been screened at Points of Entry, with suspected cases flagged for further investigation.
The National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and other partner laboratories have tested 379 Mpox samples, of which 33 have tested positive.
In collaboration with county governments and partners, the Ministry has ramped up surveillance efforts through active case searches, contact tracing, investigations, and the management of symptomatic cases.
Mental health and psychosocial support are also being offered to those infected and affected by Mpox.
She said risk communication and community engagement initiatives are ongoing, with a focus on educating the public about prevention and control measures for Mpox.
Muriuki emphasised that children are at heightened risk of severe illness from Mpox due to their underdeveloped immune systems.
In light of this, the Ministry of Health, together with the Ministry of Education, is enhancing school health education and implementing preventive measures in schools to curb the spread of the disease.
The PS outlined guidelines for preventing and controlling Mpox in schools, including promoting hygiene and sanitation, recognising the symptoms of Mpox, and maintaining safe practices.
Schools are also encouraged to ensure proper ventilation in classrooms and avoid crowding in any area.
Additionally, large gatherings, such as assemblies and sporting events, should comply with health and safety guidelines.
“Schools should ensure that large gatherings such as assemblies and sporting events adhere to health and safety guidelines,” Muriuki said.
