The Ministry of Health on Thursday 31 July confirmed an outbreak of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, at the Taita-Taveta one-stop border point in Kenya. The outbreak was detected in an individual traveling from Uganda to Rwanda through Kenya.

 

What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. It presents symptoms such as a skin rash or mucosal lesions, fever, headache, generalized aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can spread from person to person through close contact with infectious skin or mucosal lesions, or through respiratory droplets.

Risk of Transmission
Mpox is endemic in the forested areas of East, Central, and West Africa. Since May 2022, there has been an ongoing global outbreak with peak cases reported in August 2022 and June-November 2023. There is a significant risk of regional transmission because of high population movement between Kenya and other East African countries, particularly along major transport corridors.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of Mpox is confirmed through laboratory tests of skin lesions. These tests can be done at the National Public Health Laboratory and other specialized laboratories in the country. Mpox usually resolves without complications within 2-4 weeks. Symptomatic treatment may be offered to patients if necessary, while complicated cases should be referred to medical professionals for specialized treatment.

How to protect yourself from the spread of Mpox

• Wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• If you have symptoms, seek health advice, avoid close contact with others, and visit the nearest health facility for management.
• Avoid close contact with anyone with suspected or confirmed Mpox.

How the Governmnet is Controlling the Spread of Mpox
The Ministry of Health has intensified efforts to contain the Mpox outbreak and prevent its spread. In collaboration with County Governments, Port Health Authorities, and other relevant agencies, the ministry is enhancing surveillance, reporting suspected cases, and disseminating crucial information to the public. These measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to address the health crisis promptly and effectively.