The Ministry of Health on Friday confirmed a second case of monkeypox infection following a laboratory test conducted on a driver at the Malaba One Stop Border Post in Busia County.
According to Health Cabinet Secretary Debra Barasa, the driver reportedly showed salient symptoms of the disease and had a history of travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where the disease broke out.
Barasa noted that the patient had already been isolated and was under active management in one of the health facilities within the county.
The CS further revealed that the Ministry had enhanced its surveillance for suspected cases across all counties to ensure the spread of the disease is controlled.
Barasa stated that a total of 42 samples had already been submitted to government laboratories for testing, 40 of which tested negative for the disease.
“In addition, we have screened a total of 426,438 travellers at our various ports of entry across the country,” CS Barasa noted.
"Our health facilities are adequately staffed and well-equipped to diagnose and manage this disease and therefore its identification should not be a cause for alarm."
In its announcement, the Ministry of Health directed Kenyans to remain vigilant and observe public health measures to ensure their safety and well-being.
Among the recommendations made by the ministry included regularly washing hands with soap and running water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Kenyans were also urged to practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting Mpox-like symptoms.
"If you or your loved one exhibits or has been in contact with someone with Mpox disease signs and symptoms visit the nearest health facility for assessment by a qualified health professional," the Ministry of Health stated.
