Editor's Review

Avoid engaging in unprotected sex and reduce multiple sexual partners - Health PS Mary Muthoni.

The Ministry of Health has cautioned Kenyans over Mpox after two additional cases were reported in the country.

In a statement on Monday, December 30, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni disclosed that the cases were reported in Nakuru and Mombasa counties, bringing the total number of confirmed Mpox cases to 31.

"The Ministry would like to inform the public of two additional laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox reported in Nakuru and Mombasa counties. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 31 since the outbreak began.

"These cases have been reported across 12 counties, with the highest numbers in Nakuru (10 cases), Mombasa (8 cases), and Nairobi (2 cases). A total of 217 contacts have been identified, 204 of whom have been monitored for 21 days. Nine contacts tested positive for Mpox, and four (4) contacts are still being followed up," Muthoni remarked.

At the same time, she stated that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with its partners, has deployed a multidisciplinary rapid response team to assist with active case search, contact tracing, investigation, and symptomatic management of confirmed cases.

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Mary Muthoni (centre).

Muthoni advised the public to avoid close skin-to-skin contact with individuals showing rashes resembling Mpox and to refrain from sharing bedding, towels, or clothing.

She also encouraged frequent handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with sick individuals. Additionally, she urged the public to avoid unprotected sex and limit multiple sexual partners.

The Principal Secretary further called on anyone experiencing a new, unexplained rash or other Mpox symptoms to self-isolate and seek immediate medical attention.

She emphasized exercising caution around wild animals and avoiding the consumption of uninspected meat and meat products from wild animals.

"We strongly advise the general public to follow these public health measures and seek medical attention at any of the nearest health facilities if experiencing Mpox-like symptoms," Muthoni explained.