Kenya confirms three new Mpox cases

The Ministry of Health has confirmed three new Mpox cases in Busia County, bringing the total number to 42 since the outbreak in July 2024.  

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the cases have been reported across 12 counties; Nakuru (10), Mombasa (8), Busia (4), Nairobi (2), Kajiado (2), Bungoma (2), Taita Taveta (2), Kericho (2), Makueni (2), Kilifi (2), Kiambu (1), and Uasin Gishu (1).  

So far, two hundred and seventy-one people have been traced, with 246  monitored for the recommended period. Of those tested, nine have been confirmed positive, while sixteen remain under observation.  

The Ministry has also warned of a high risk of importing the Marburg and Ebola viruses from Tanzania and Sudan.  

Tanzania declared a Marburg outbreak on January 20, while Uganda reported an Ebola outbreak on January 30.  

“The outbreaks in Uganda and Tanzania remain active. Kenya is at high risk of importing MVD from Tanzania and SEBV from Uganda due to high population mobility and cross-border interactions within the East Africa region,” the PS said.  

Surveillance has also been heightened at major border points to curb the spread of the diseases.