By Bradley Nandasaba, Nairobi
Mpox has killed 19 people in Kenya, with cases reported in 40 of the country’s 47 counties, raising concern among health authorities over continued community transmission.
According to the Ministry of Health, Kenya has recorded 1,298 Mpox cases. Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni warned that the country was not yet out of danger and urged Kenyans to remain vigilant.
Speaking while chairing a departmental management meeting with heads of departments under the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Muthoni said the virus remained a threat.
“Mpox is still a threat to the country. We need to remain mindful and take the necessary precautions,” Muthoni said.
Seven counties, particularly those along major transport corridors, have been identified as being at heightened risk of transmission.
Mombasa has recorded the highest number of cases, followed by Nairobi, while Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi and Nakuru are also among the counties reporting significant numbers of infections.
Muthoni warned that the virus continues to circulate silently within communities, making surveillance, screening and public awareness critical to preventing further spread.
“It is easier to visit isolation wards in our hospitals and find Mpox patients than it is with many other diseases. The virus is still silently present in the community and is affecting many people, particularly around our border points,” she said.
The seven counties along key transport corridors have consequently been placed under heightened surveillance as health authorities step up efforts to detect and contain new infections.
Muthoni said continued vigilance was necessary, particularly at border points and other areas with high population movement.
“We are not yet out of the woods when it comes to these viruses. We have to continue with sensitization and strengthen screening at all our border points,” she said.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain alert and continue observing recommended preventive measures, while health authorities strengthen surveillance and screening at points of entry.
The measures are intended to identify infections early and prevent further transmission, particularly in communities along major transport corridors and border areas.
