Health Ministry confirms fifth Mpox case in Kenya

In a statement, Health CS Deborah Barasa explained that the female got the virus from her spouse, who was the fourth confirmed case in the country and is currently admitted in Nakuru. 

The female was admitted at Coast General Hospital on August 28, 2024, and after the tests turned positive, she was isolated at Utange Hospital's Mpox Isolation Centre. 

"The patient has no recent travel history to a country reporting Mpox cases, her spouse had recently travelled to Rwanda, returning on August 24, 2024," the statement read in part. 

The CS confirmed that 33 contacts are still under close observation as the government seeks to control the spread of the viral disease. 

From the five confirmed cases, CS Barasa said two have fully recovered while three remain in isolation and are responding positively to treatment. 

"We reassure the public that our healthcare facilities are fully prepared to diagnose and treat Mpox. There is no need to panic if you believe you may have symptoms," she noted. 

Mpox or monkeypox is a viral disease that is spread through direct contact with an infected person. It consists of symptoms such as body rash, high fever, enlarged lymph nodes, headache, fatigue, muscle and body aches and back pain. 

The CS urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel to countries reporting Mpox outbreaks and report to the nearest healthcare facility if one suspects they have the disease. 

If you're caring for Mpox patients, healthcare providers are advised to adhere to preventive measures as outlined by the Ministry. 

Further, Kenyans are advised to avoid close contact with live or dead animals and maintain personal hygiene. 

"We remain committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all citizens and shall continue to implement comprehensive response measures," she added. 

The statement comes as the government revealed that Kenyans would begin receiving vaccines for the disease by December. According to Health DG Patrick Amoth, Kenya will acquire 2 million doses from Denmark-based Nordic manufacturing company. 

He confirmed that the vulnerable population would be prioritised in the administration of the doses.