The Ministry of Health has confirmed a second laboratory-confirmed case of Mpox disease in Kenya, raising concerns about the spread of the disease within the country.
Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, the Cabinet Secretary for Health said the patient, an adult male truck driver, was identified at the Malaba One Stop Border Post in Busia County, showing symptoms after travelling from the outbreak epicentre in DRC.
The patient is isolated and receiving care in a Busia County health facility.
In a media update released on August 23, 2024, the Ministry expressed its gratitude to Kenyans for their cooperation in combating the outbreak and called for continued vigilance.
The first case of Mpox was reported on July 31, 2024, with 28 contacts having completed a 21-day follow-up period without developing symptoms, leading to their discharge from active monitoring.
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The Ministry has emphasized that active surveillance has been heightened across the country, especially in regions close to entry points.
To date, 42 samples have been tested, with 40 of them returning negative results. Furthermore, 426,438 travellers have been screened at various ports of entry.
The Ministry reassured the public that health facilities are well-prepared to diagnose and manage Mpox cases.
However, the government has urged citizens to remain alert and adhere to preventive measures, including regular hand washing, practising good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of Mpox.
In addition, the Ministry has cautioned against consuming uninspected meat products and urged the public to avoid contact with wild animals, which are potential carriers of the disease.
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