The Ministry of Health has warned the public of an Mpox outbreak in the country after confirming the first case of the disease from an individual travelling from Uganda to Rwanda through Kenya at the Taita-Taveta one-stop border point (OSBP).
On July 31, the ministry issued a press release shedding light on the disease and informing the public of the ongoing response efforts.
In the statement, PS Mary Muthoni explained that Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness characterized by a distinctive skin rash, fever, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Furthermore, the ministry explained the disease spreads through direct contact with infected persons through the skin and other lesions, including those in the mouth or on the genitals.
Additionally, it was also noted that the virus was also transmissible through respiratory droplets.
Details About Mpox
Also, the ministry further explained that Mpox is native to the forested areas in East, Central, and West Africa and a global outbreak has been ongoing since May 2022.
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“Mpox is endemic in the forested areas of East, Central and West Africa. Since May 2022, a multi-country outbreak has been ongoing globally with peak cases in August 2022 and June-November 2023,” read the statement in part.
Similarly, it was highlighted that a single case of Mpox is considered an outbreak.
Given the high population movement within the East African region, the ministry emphasized the risk of further transmission noting that cases were already being reported in other countries.
Diagnosis of the Mpox Disease
Regarding the diagnosis of Mpox, the ministry explained that this was determined through confirmatory laboratory tests conducted on skin lesions.
Notably, these tests can be performed at the National Public Health Laboratory as well as other specialized facilities across the country.
“M-pox usually resolves without complications within 2-4 weeks. Symptomatic treatment may however be offered to patients if necessary. Complicated cases should be referred to medical professionals for specialized treatment.”
“Other common diseases may present with similar features, including chicken pox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, allergic reactions, among others.”
Prevention Measures
Following this development, the ministry has urged the public to adhere to essential public health measures so as to protect themselves and others from further spread.
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These measures include frequent handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitizer, seeking medical advice if symptoms arise, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, and visiting the nearest health facility for management.
Furthermore, the ministry said that they would collaborate with local authorities to monitor and control the outbreak.
They also said they would and provide further updates as the situation develops.
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