Kenya confirms second case of Mpox - MoH

Kenya's Ministry of Health has announced a second case of Mpox.

The new case includes an adult male truck driver who showed up with noticeable symptoms of the disease at the Port Health screening desk at the Malaba One Stop Border Post in Busia County.

The patient had travelled to the outbreak's epicentre in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is currently in isolation in a health facility in Busia County, receiving active care.

Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa assured the public that surveillance and containment procedures are in place to combat the epidemic. "The Ministry of Health appreciates Kenyans' unwavering support and cooperation in the fight against Mpox. Your adherence to containment protocols and government regulations has been critical," Barasa stated.

The Ministry of Health announced that 42 samples were tested for Mpox illness, with 40 yielding negative results. Furthermore, 426,438 passengers have been inspected at various ports of entry around the country.

To prevent the spread of Mpox, the Ministry recommends all Kenyans to take the following public health measures:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

Maintain proper hygiene and prevent close contact with anyone with Mpox-like symptoms.

Do not share personal goods like towels, cutlery, or clothing.

Exercise caution when among wild animals, and avoid eating uninspected meat and meat products from wildlife.

If you or a loved one exhibits Mpox symptoms or has come into contact with someone who does, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Since the first Mpox case was reported on July 31, 2024, 28 contacts from that case have completed a 21-day follow-up period without experiencing symptoms and have been released from active monitoring.

According to the Ministry, the person who contracted Mpox in the first case has recovered.

The Health Ministry recommends finding reliable information from their official website and certified healthcare providers. Verify the accuracy of material found on social media. Regular updates will be issued to keep the public informed and safe.

"The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate actions to protect public health. Let us be watchful and continue to take preventative actions to guarantee the safety of our family and nation," Barasa said.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Mpox a health emergency, and several nations are still reporting cases. The WHO revealed on Thursday that Ivory Coast, in Africa, has reported its first cases of Mpox Clade 2 since the outbreak began in many countries in 2022.

According to the WHO, roughly 100 new cases of the Clade 2 Mpox strain are recorded each month in Europe.

Mpox spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact.