Mpox detected in Garissa, patient isolated as officials trace contacts
The patient, who works at Garissa County Referral Hospital (GCRH), developed symptoms including fever, fatigue, and a characteristic rash on October 20, 2025.
Health authorities in Garissa County have confirmed a case of Mpox (Monkeypox) infection involving a 35-year-old male healthcare worker, prompting swift containment and public health response measures.
According to a report from the Garissa County Department of Health, the case was confirmed on 29th October 2025, following laboratory testing at the National Virology Reference Laboratory (NPHL) in Nairobi.
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The patient, who works at Garissa County Referral Hospital (GCRH), developed symptoms including fever, fatigue, and a characteristic rash on October 20, 2025.
"The patient is currently isolated at GCRH Isolation Unit and is clinically stable," said a county health officer familiar with the case. "We have traced and are monitoring all six identified contacts, both household and professional, to prevent further transmission."
The report indicates that the healthcare worker had travelled to Nairobi for a mental health conference two weeks before symptom onset. Samples collected on October 27 tested positive for the Mpox virus, confirming the county's first case this year.
Following the confirmation, the County Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) was activated to coordinate the outbreak response.
Health officials have initiated contact tracing, community sensitisation, and infection prevention measures. Vitamin A supplementation was also provided to support the immune response of affected individuals.
"We've enhanced Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practices in health facilities and ensured PPE provision for all frontline staff," said a statement from the Department of Preventive and Promotive Health Services.
The county report highlighted limited technical capacity among health workers in Mpox case detection, reporting, and sample handling as a key challenge.
Health authorities have notified the National Public Health Institute (NPHI) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) Kenya office for additional technical support and guidance.
Mpox, a viral zoonotic disease, has been reported sporadically in parts of Kenya, but this is the first confirmed case in Garissa County in 2025.
"The situation is under control, and there is no cause for public alarm," the county health department reassured. "We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected rash illnesses to the nearest health facility."
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