By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health has confirmed a 5th case of Mpox in the country involving a 29 year old female from Mombasa County who is a spouse to the fourth confirmed case.
The public is urged to stay vigilant as the ministry continues to monitor and manage the spread of the virus.
According to the Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Dr.Deborah M. Barasa, the new case was detected through ongoing surveillance and testing efforts aimed at curbing the spread of Mpox. Health officials are actively tracing contacts of the confirmed case to prevent further transmission.
“The 5th case , confirmed in the country on Wednesday 4th September 2024, involves a 29 year old female from Mombasa, a resident of VOK area, near Tumaini Academy.The patient a spouse to the 4th confirmed case currently admitted in Nakuru, was seen at the Coast General Hospital on 28th August 2024 and is currently admitted in isolation at Utange Hospital’s Mpox Isolation Centre.The patient has no recent travel history to a country reporting Mpox cases, her spouse had recently traveled to Rwanda, returning on 24th August 2024,” noted the CS.
Read more:http://Ministry Of Health Confirms Fourth MPOX Case In Kenya
Dr. Barasa reassured the public that the ministry is taking all necessary measures to ensure that the virus remains under control.
“Active surveillance for suspected cases is ongoing to control the spread of the disease.Currently, 33 contacts remain under close observation.Out of five confirmed cases two have fully recovered while three remain in isolation and are responding positively to treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of our response and management of the disease,” noted Dr.Barasa.
“We reassure the public that our healthcare facilities are fully prepared to diagnose and treat Mpox,’ she added.
The Ministry has also urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel to countries reporting Mpox outbreaks and to first self-isolate before re-joining their families, especially when they have signs and symptoms.
The Ministry of Health continues to work closely with county governments, health facilities, and international partners to ensure the availability of necessary resources, including testing kits, vaccines, and treatment options.
As the situation evolves, the Ministry of Health urges the public to adhere to safety guidelines, including regular hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of the virus.