Kenya confirms 137 Mpox cases in 17 counties
In a statement released on Tuesday, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the highest numbers have been recorded in Busia with 48 cases, followed by Mombasa with 37, and Nakuru with 16.
The Ministry of Health has confirmed 137 Mpox cases across 17 counties in Kenya as of June 9, with most infections reported outside the Northern transport corridor.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the highest numbers have been recorded in Busia with 48 cases, followed by Mombasa with 37, and Nakuru with 16.
Makueni has 10 cases, Nairobi 5, Kajiado and Bungoma 3 each, while Taita Taveta, Kericho, and Kilifi have reported 2 cases each.
Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, Migori, Machakos, Isiolo, Kisii and Kirinyaga have recorded one case each.
According to the PS, a total of 400 contacts have been identified, with 315 already monitored for the recommended 21-day period. Out of those, 15 contacts later tested positive for Mpox.
She said 597 samples have so far been tested at the National Public Health Laboratory and partner laboratories, confirming the 137 positive cases.
To curb the spread of the disease, Muthoni said the ministry has intensified its response in affected counties in collaboration with county governments. This includes enhanced surveillance, active case search, contact tracing, investigation, and management of those with symptoms.
The ministry has also boosted public awareness through the dissemination of 15 million text messages via Safaricom. In addition, members of the public can access prevention and control messages by calling 719 or dialing *719# free of charge.
“Over 4.8 million travelers have been screened at Points of Entry, and suspected cases are identified for further investigation,” the PS said.
“The Ministry of Health remains committed to controlling the Mpox virus outbreak and protecting the health and safety of all Kenyans. We appreciate the continued efforts by the public in helping us combat this outbreak and safeguarding the well-being of our republic,” she added.
