By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health has reported two new confirmed cases in Kericho and Taita Taveta counties respectively.
According to the Ministry the two new cases brings the Mpox diagnosis to thirty three cases since the outbreak of the disease.
“The Ministry would like to inform the public of two(2) additional confirmed Mpox cases in Kericho(1) and Taita Taveta (1) counties. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to thirty three (33) since the outbreak began,” stated MOH.
“These cases have been reported across 12 counties among them, Nakuru (10), Mombasa (8), Nairobi (2), Kajiado (2), Bungoma (2), Taita Taveta (1),Kericho (2), Busia, Makueni, Kilifi, Kiambu And Uasin Gishu recording one case so far.
According to the reports, 225 contacts have been identified, 216 of whom have been monitored for 21 days, nine contacts tested positive for Mpox.
Efforts to manage the outbreak include enhanced laboratory testing capacity at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and robust response measures to isolate suspected and confirmed cases.
Read more: http://Ministry of Health Urges Vigilance as Mpox Cases Rise to 31
Additionally, over 2.9 million travellers have been screened at points of entry. Suspected cases are subjected to further investigation and testing at National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and partner laboratories.
The Ministry noted that out of 379 samples that have have undergone testing, 33 samples have tested positive.
In a statement, the Ministry has intensified efforts to ensure access to medical assistance for suspected Mpox cases.
“The Ministry, collaboration with the County governments and partners, has enhanced surveillance through active case search, contact listing, tracing, investigation and symptomatic management of confirmed cases, including offering mental health and psychosocial support to infected and affected persons,” noted the Ministry.
As Mpox cases rise, the Ministry confirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring a safer, healthier festive period for all Kenyans.