Kenya has reported 137 confirmed cases of Mpox across 17 counties, raising national concern as the disease spreads beyond its initial hotspots along the Northern transport corridor.
Busia County leads with the highest number of infections at 48, followed by Mombasa with 37 and Nakuru with 16, indicating a significant national spread. Other affected counties include Makueni (10), Nairobi (5), Kajiado (3), Bungoma (3), Taita Taveta (2), Kericho (2), Kilifi (2), Machakos (2), and one case each reported in Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, Migori, Isiolo, Kisii, and Kirinyaga.
Health authorities have identified a total of 400 contacts linked to the outbreak. Out of these, 315 individuals have already been monitored for the standard 21-day period, with 15 of them testing positive during this time. Testing efforts have also been scaled up, with 597 samples analyzed so far at the National Public Health Laboratory and partner facilities, confirming 137 positive cases.
Efforts to contain the outbreak have been intensified at Kenya’s Points of Entry, where over 4.8 million travellers have been screened. Suspected cases identified during the screening have been isolated and subjected to further medical investigation to prevent further transmission.
To accelerate the outbreak response, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with County Governments and other partners, has enhanced disease surveillance. This includes active case finding, contact listing and tracing, thorough investigations, and the symptomatic management of confirmed cases.
Public awareness campaigns are also being strengthened to combat misinformation and enhance community-level engagement. A total of 15 million text messages have been sent out via Safaricom to educate the public about Mpox. Additionally, Kenyans can access Mpox-related information by calling 719 or dialing *719# free of charge.
The government is urging citizens to seek reliable and factual information about Mpox from healthcare professionals, the Ministry of Health’s official website, or through emergency hotlines 0729 47 14 14 and 0732 35 35 35.
Officials have emphasized the government’s commitment to managing the Mpox outbreak and safeguarding the public’s health. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspected cases promptly, and cooperate with health authorities as they continue efforts to contain the virus.
The ongoing situation underscores the importance of a coordinated national response and community participation in stopping the spread of Mpox, which remains a pressing public health issue in Kenya.
