Busia, Mombasa, Nakuru lead as Mpox cases hit 137

At least 137 people infected with Mpox across 17 counties. [File, Standard]

At least 137 people have been infected with Mpox across 17 counties as the outbreak spreads beyond previously affected areas.

In a statement dated Monday, June 9, the Ministry of Health said Busia had the highest number of cases with 48, followed by Mombasa with 37 and Nakuru with 16.

Other affected counties include Makueni, Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, Kericho, Kilifi, Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, Migori, Machakos, Isiolo, Kisii and Kirinyaga.

Principal Secretary Mary Muriuki noted health officials had listed 400 people as contacts of confirmed cases.

"We monitored 315 contacts for 21 days and later confirmed 15 infections," said Muriuki.

She noted that 597 samples had been tested at the National Public Health Laboratory and partner facilities. Of those, 137 were positive. "We are also seeing more cases outside the Northern transport corridor," said Muriuki.

More than 4.8 million travellers have been screened at border points, according to the ministry. Suspected cases are isolated and investigated further.

The ministry said it had stepped up contact tracing, case searches and treatment of those infected. It also launched a national awareness campaign through mobile networks.

She urged the public to call 719 or dial *719# free of charge for updates and advice.

The ministry said it continues to work with county governments and partners to control the outbreak.