By Daniel Otieno, Kakamega
The Mpox (Monkeypox) scare in Kakamega County has been dispelled after confirmatory tests from the national laboratory in Nairobi returned negative for all suspected cases, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) of Health Livingston Imbai has announced.
“All the samples taken to the national laboratory in Nairobi have tested negative. This has brought relief to the individuals, their families, and the people of Kakamega at large,” said Imbai.
The announcement comes days after Governor Fernandes Barasa revealed that three individuals had tested positive for Mpox in preliminary assessments and were placed under home-based quarantine.
The patients, who had been under close monitoring by county health officials, were reported to be in stable condition, with their medical and welfare needs catered for by the county government.
Mr Imbai clarified that the initial results were precautionary and that the final tests had ruled out any active Mpox infections in the county.
In response to the suspected outbreak, the County Department of Health had activated emergency protocols and established isolation facilities. These measures, Imbai said, were critical to ensure preparedness and prevent panic.
“We are glad that all samples returned negative. The County Government had taken swift and responsible action to protect public health. We have extended the isolation centers to Kakamega General Hospital, Lugari Sub-County Hospital, and Chekanini Center. We are good to go, and we urge citizens to remain calm as the government remains in full control,” he added.
The county also coordinated with Nairobi and Mombasa health departments to trace contacts and monitor individuals who had recently traveled from the two cities.
“The truck driver who came from Mombasa, along with his wife and a house help who traveled from Nairobi, are all under home isolation and surveillance to prevent any contact with the public. This will help us manage the situation effectively,” said Imbai.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, observe hygiene protocols, and report any symptoms such as rashes, sore throat, or fever to the nearest health facility.
“We ask the public to remain alert and report any suspected cases. Our medical teams are prepared and well-equipped to handle any eventualities. At this point, there is no cause for alarm,” Imbai reassured.
