The Ministry of Health has confirmed the emergence of five additional cases of Mpox.
In a statement released on Monday, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muriuki indicated that one case was identified in Kericho and another in Taita Taveta, both reported on January 17, 2025.
“The latest cases, reported on January 21, 2025, include two cases in Busia and one in Kilifi,” she noted.
This brings the total number of Mpox cases in the nation to 36, distributed across 12 counties.
Muriuki highlighted that the counties with the highest case counts are Nakuru with 10 cases, Mombasa with 8 cases, and Busia with 3 cases.
Other counties reporting cases include Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Kericho, and Kilifi, each with two cases, while Makueni, Kiambu, and Uasin Gishu have reported one case each.
The Principal Secretary reassured the public that the Ministry of Health has established a comprehensive surveillance system to promptly detect any potential cases.
“This system includes vigilant monitoring of travelers, particularly those arriving from regions experiencing active outbreaks, as well as the timely dissemination of information to healthcare professionals and the public nationwide,” she stated.
Furthermore, she mentioned that the Ministry has undertaken proactive measures in collaboration with key stakeholders, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, to ensure adequate preparedness for response.
These measures encompass strengthening the national health system, equipping healthcare workers with essential training and personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensuring the availability of diagnostic tools in laboratories.
“We have also launched public awareness initiatives through community engagement with key populations, as well as through social and mass media, and the distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to inform the public on protective measures against the disease,” Muriuki added.
She urged the Kenyan population to adopt preventive practices, including maintaining proper hand hygiene and enhancing sanitation within the hospitality sector, which are crucial for controlling the spread of the disease.
