The Ministry of Health has confirmed five new Mpox cases, bringing the total to 28 in the country across 12 counties.
In an update dated Monday, December 9, 2024, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa stated that the latest cases have been reported from Nakuru and Mombasa counties.
She went on to say that Nakuru County has reported the highest number of Mpox cases, followed by Mombasa, while Taita Taveta, Busia, Kiambu, Makueni, Kericho, Uasin Gishu, and Kilifi have reported the least.
In addition, Barasa noted that out of the 28 cases reported, eight individuals are under management, 17 have fully recovered, two are in self-isolation, and one death has been recorded.
“Our laboratories have confirmed five (5) new Mpox cases this week, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to twenty-eight (28) cases across 12 counties. The latest cases have been reported from Nakuru (3 cases) and Mombasa (2 cases) counties.
“The distribution of cases is as follows: Nakuru (9), Mombasa (6), Kajiado (2). Bungoma (2), Nairobi (2), Taita Taveta (1), Busia (1), Kiambu (1), Makueni (1), Kericho (1), Uasin Gishu (1), and Kilifi (1). Currently, eight (8) individuals are under management, 17 have fully recovered, two (2) are in self-isolation with one (1) death recorded,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the CS noted that since the outbreak of Mpox in the country in July, a total of 2,207,715 travellers have been screened at various Points of Entry (POE), and 204 contacts have been identified.
“To date, 204 contacts have been identified, with 147 completing the required 21-day follow-up. Seven (7) contacts have tested positive for Mpox, and 50 remain under active follow-up.
“A total of 2,207,715 travellers have been screened at various Points of Entry (POE) since the onset of the outbreak in July 2024. The National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) has so far received 322 samples for testing, 28 of which have tested positive, 292 have posted negative results, and two (2) are pending,” the CS added.
Mpox measures
To curb the outbreak, Barasa noted that the Ministry of Health continues to engage with various stakeholders to create awareness and recommend Mpox preventive measures.
She further urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures.
“To address the outbreak, the Ministry of Health continues to engage with the county governments and stakeholders to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of adhering to the recommended Mpox preventive measures.
“The Ministry of Health continues to enhance surveillance countrywide and monitor the outbreak regionally. We urge all Kenyans to remain vigilant, adhere to preventive measures, and cooperate with public health officials in ongoing efforts to protect our communities and curb the spread of Mpox,” she stated.
Mpox Update: The Ministry of Health has confirmed 5 new Mpox cases this week, bringing the total to 28 across 12 counties. Surveillance and preventive efforts are ongoing. Kenyans are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures. pic.twitter.com/WA5MkrYr3p
— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) December 10, 2024
