Kenya confirms two new Mpox cases, total rises to 12

The Ministry of Health has reported two new Mpox cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 12.

In a statement, Health Cabinet Secretary Debra Mlongo stated that the new cases were identified from contacts who had been under observation.

"A total of 68 contacts have been traced, with 60 completing the mandatory 21-day monitoring period. Six contacts remain under observation, while two tested positive for Mpox," said the CS.

Of the 12 confirmed cases, seven patients have fully recovered, while five are still undergoing treatment.

The cases have spread across several counties, with Nakuru and Kajiado recording the highest number of cases at two each, while  Nairobi, Taita Taveta, Busia, and Mombasa each recorded a case. 

Other affected counties include Bungoma, Kericho, Makueni, and Kilifi, all with one case.

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Mlongo also noted that in the past 24 hours, 15,269 travelers have been screened at various Points of Entry (POEs), bringing the total number of screened travelers to over one million.

"The National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) has received 230 samples for testing, with 12 testing positive, 217 negative, and one result still pending," she added.

The CS has urged Kenyans to remain vigilant by avoiding close contact with infected individuals, refraining from touching items used by them, limiting sexual partners, washing hands regularly, and avoiding contact with wild animals. These precautions she says are crucial to curbing the spread of Mpox.