Government warns of mpox outbreak at Taita-Taveta border point

The government has warned of a mpox outbreak at the Taita-Taveta one-stop border point. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus.

 The disease is characterised by symptoms including a skin rash, mucosal lesions, fever, headache, general aches and swollen lymph nodes. 

Mpox can spread through direct contact with infectious skin lesions or bodily fluids, including respiratory droplets. 

It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding that has been in contact with an infected person.

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed that the infected individual was travelling from Uganda to Rwanda through Kenya. 

Since May 2022, a multi-country mpox outbreak has been ongoing, with peak cases reported in August 2022 and from June to November 2023.

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The high population movement between Kenya and other East African countries, particularly through the Northern and Central transport corridors, poses a significant risk of regional transmission.

The Ministry of Health advises the public to take precautionary measures to curb the spread of the disease. 

These measures include washing hands with soap and water, seeking medical attention if symptoms appear and avoiding close contact with suspected or confirmed cases.

PS Muthoni stated, "The Ministry of Health assures the public that we remain committed to containing the outbreak and preventing further spread of the disease by working with the county government, port health authorities and other relevant government agencies to enhance surveillance."

The Central African Republic has also declared an outbreak, with infections spreading to the capital, Bangui, after being confined to rural areas.

The Ministry of Health is actively working under surveillance to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread. 

The public is urged to stay vigilant and adhere to health guidelines.