NAIROBI, Feb 9 (NNN-KBC) — The Ministry of Health has confirmed a new case of Mpox in Makueni County, raising the total number of infections to 38 since the outbreak began.
In a statement, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the virus has now spread across 12 counties, with Nakuru leading in reported cases at 10, followed by Mombasa (8) and Busia (4).
Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Kericho, Makueni, and Kilifi, have reported two cases each while Kiambu and Uasin Gishu have recored one case each.
Muthoni revealed that 255 contacts of the 38 confirmed cases have been identified, 246 of whom have been monitored for the recommended period of 21 days, while the rest are still under observation.
Meanwhile, over 3.2 million travellers have been screened at airports and other entry points as authorities intensify surveillance efforts.
In response to the rising cases, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments and partner organizations, has deployed rapid response teams to high-risk areas.
The teams are conducting contact tracing, active case searches, and providing symptomatic management, including psychosocial support for affected individuals.
Additionally, the Ministry is working with the Ministry of Education to prevent the spread of Mpox in schools.
The public has been urged to take precautions, including avoiding close contact with infected individuals, using protective gear when caring for sick people, and practicing proper hand hygiene.
Health workers have also been advised to remain vigilant and adhere to infection prevention protocols. — NNN-KBC
