Kenya Reports One New Mpox Case, Total Cases Rise to 18; Signs & Preventive Measures
Nairobi, Kenya – November 20, 2024 – The Ministry of Health has confirmed one new Mpox case in Nakuru County, bringing the total number of cases nationwide to 18. This announcement was made in a press statement released earlier today by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa.
The cases are distributed across 11 counties: Nakuru (4), Nairobi (2), Mombasa (2), Kajiado (2), Bungoma (2), and one case each in Taita Taveta, Busia, Makueni, Kericho, Uasin Gishu, and Kilifi. Out of the 18 cases, four remain under management, while 14 patients have fully recovered.
The ministry also revealed that 115 close contacts have been identified since the outbreak began. Of these, 80 have completed the mandatory 21-day follow-up period, while 32 remain under observation. Three of the tracked contacts have tested positive for Mpox.
In its ongoing surveillance efforts, the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) has tested 296 samples, yielding 18 positive cases, 272 negative results, and six pending tests.
Signs and Symptoms of Mpox
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that presents symptoms similar to those of smallpox, albeit less severe. The disease’s signs include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and back pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- A rash that develops into fluid-filled lesions, which typically appear on the face, hands, feet, and other parts of the body.
The Ministry of Health advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
Preventive Measures and Public Appeal
The ministry is urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures, which include:
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals or their personal items.
- Maintaining hygiene through regular handwashing or the use of hand sanitizer.
- Limiting the number of sexual partners to reduce exposure risk.
Kenya has screened over 1.9 million travelers at various points of entry since the onset of the outbreak, with 14,311 screenings conducted in the past 24 hours alone.
For inquiries or to report suspected cases, the public is encouraged to contact the Ministry through the emergency hotlines 719, 0729 471414, or 0732 353535.
“Through vigilance, collaboration, and adherence to preventive measures, we can protect our communities and curb the spread of Mpox,” said Dr. Barasa.
