Kenya Reports Fifth Case of Mpox: What You Need to Know
Kenya has confirmed its fifth Mpox case, involving a 29-year-old woman living near Tumaini Academy in Mombasa. Health CS Deborah Barasa stated that she contracted the virus from her spouse, who is the fourth confirmed case and is currently hospitalized in Nakuru. The woman was admitted to Coast General Hospital on August 28, 2024, and after testing positive, she was isolated at the Mpox Isolation Centre at Utange Hospital.
The patient, who has no recent travel history to countries with Mpox outbreaks, contracted the virus from her spouse. The spouse had traveled to Rwanda and returned on August 24, 2024. Health CS Deborah Barasa confirmed that 33 contacts are being closely monitored as the government works to control the spread of the disease.
Out of the five confirmed cases, two individuals have fully recovered, while three remain in isolation and are showing positive responses to treatment. CS Barasa reassured the public that healthcare facilities are well-equipped to handle Mpox, urging individuals to seek medical attention if they suspect they have symptoms.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is spread through direct contact with an infected person and presents symptoms like body rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and back pain. The CS advised against unnecessary travel to areas with Mpox outbreaks and recommended reporting to the nearest healthcare facility if symptoms arise.
For those caring for Mpox patients, adherence to preventive measures is crucial. Additionally, the public is advised to avoid close contact with animals and maintain good personal hygiene.
The government announced that Kenya will start receiving Mpox vaccines by December, with 2 million doses sourced from a Denmark-based manufacturer. Health DG Patrick Amoth stated that priority will be given to the vulnerable population in vaccine administration.
Kenya Reports Fifth Case of Mpox: What You Need to Know
