- The deadly Mpox virus, still under scientific scrutiny to understand its full impact, has claimed its first victim in Kenya
- Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed the death as part of a growing outbreak that has now reached 13 cases across the country
- Regions including Nakuru, Kajiado, Bungoma, and Nairobi are grappling with infections as health authorities scramble to contain the virus
Kenya has confirmed its first death from the deadly Mpox virus, sparking concern as health authorities report a total of 13 cases across the country.
The Public Health Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni, revealed that the deceased was among the earliest diagnosed individuals as the country battles this rare but serious outbreak.
The Ministry of Health’s Mpox Situation Update for October 14, 2024, highlights the nationwide spread, with cases reported in Nakuru (2), Kajiado (2), Bungoma (2), and other regions including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kilifi, each reporting one case.
So far, the National Public Health Laboratory has tested 238 samples, of which 13 have returned positive.
While no new cases have been confirmed in the past 24 hours, the country’s health officials are on high alert.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates:
The report indicates that 68 contacts have been identified, three of whom have tested positive.
61 individuals have completed the mandatory 21-day follow-up period, while four are still being monitored closely.
See Also:
1: Former CJ Willy Mutunga’s Son Dies After Undergoing Four Surgeries at Coptic Hospital
2: Kenyans Mourn as Viral Super Metro Conductor Dies at KNH
Authorities have ramped up efforts to combat the spread. Over 21,000 travellers were screened at various points of entry within the last 24 hours, bringing the cumulative number of travellers screened to over 1.3 million.
Public awareness campaigns are also underway, with nearly 367,000 people sensitised about Mpox at border checkpoints.
PS Muthoni reassured the public that risk communication and community engagement strategies are being deployed to curb the spread of the virus and reduce stigma.
Plans to launch rapid response teams for contact tracing and thorough investigations are already in place.
In addition, the Kenya Red Cross is aiding the government by sending bulk SMS alerts to enhance Mpox messaging across the country.
Symptomatic management for confirmed cases is ongoing, and psychological support is being offered to those affected.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates:
Training materials are being distributed to healthcare workers to enhance their capacity to handle the outbreak.
