The Ministry of Health has confirmed 314 Mpox cases in Kenya since the outbreak was first reported in July 2024, with Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale assuring the public that all necessary steps are being taken to manage the situation.

The cases have been spread across 22 counties, with Mombasa, Busia, and Nakuru recording the highest numbers.

Mombasa leads with 146 cases, followed by Busia at 63, Nakuru (21), Kilifi (19), Nairobi (17), and Makueni (13). Other counties with recorded infections include Taita Taveta, Uasin Gishu, Bungoma, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kiambu, Kericho, Machakos, Migori, Kisii, Kirinyaga, Isiolo, Kitui, Narok, Baringo, and Trans-Nzoia.

Four new infections have been confirmed in the last 24 hours, three in Mombasa and one in Nairobi.

Currently, 33 people are admitted in health facilities across the country, while 54 others are under home-based isolation and care.

So far, 222 patients have recovered and five have died, resulting in a case fatality rate of 1.6 percent.

“The Ministry of Health remains committed to controlling the Mpox outbreak and protecting the health and safety of all Kenyans,” Duale said.

Authorities have traced 422 contacts of confirmed cases, with 392 completing the 21-day monitoring period.

The remaining contacts are still under follow-up.

Of all the contacts identified, 15 have tested positive.

As part of containment efforts, more than 4.7 million travellers have been screened at airports and other points of entry, with suspected cases tested at the National Public Health Laboratories and partner institutions.

Of 905 samples tested, 314 have been confirmed positive, reflecting a positivity rate of 34.6 percent.

The Ministry has intensified its response through partnerships with counties and health organisations.

Rapid Response Teams have been deployed across affected regions to train health workers, trace cases, and manage patients, including offering psychosocial support where needed.

Risk communication and community awareness efforts are also ongoing to counter stigma and promote prevention.

Over two million people have already been sensitized about Mpox through community engagement efforts at various border points and health facilities.

The Ministry is urging the public to follow safety guidelines and remain vigilant.

Among the preventive measures advised are avoiding close contact with suspected cases, not sharing personal items or clothing, maintaining hygiene, using protective gear when caring for patients, and reporting any symptoms early.

Those with symptoms are encouraged to self-isolate and seek medical help from trained professionals.

“We urge the public to adhere to official public health advisories and to seek accurate, up-to-date information and guidance from qualified healthcare professionals,” Duale said.

He also warned against spreading misinformation that may hinder the national response.

The Ministry has directed the public to use its official website or hotlines 719, *719#, 0729 471 414, and 0732 353 535 for reliable updates.