At least 19 people have died due to Mpox since the outbreak was confirmed in Kenya three months ago, according to a statement issued by Kenya’s Ministry of Health on Monday.
The ministry said it has so far identified seven counties as high-risk areas for Mpox due to their location along major transport corridors and proximity to border points. The East African country has so far recorded 1298 confirmed Mpox cases with Mombasa reporting the highest number of 452 cases followed by Nairobi with 320 cases.
Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi and Nakuru counties have also been identified as high risk areas as the outbreak spreads to more than 40 counties. The ministry warned that Mpox remained a threat to the country despite ongoing efforts to contain its spread. It has called for sustained public sensitization, enhanced surveillance and screening at the county’s border border points as part of efforts to detect and contain new infections.
The ministry said it is also maintaining surveillance for other infectious diseases. Although Kenya has no confirmed case of Ebola, the ministry has put measures in place to respond to any suspected case and prevent the virus from entering the country. The ministry said it would continue strengthening surveillance, vaccination, public awareness, and coordination among health agencies as it works to contain Mpox and prepare for other emerging health risks.
MG/abj/APA