Kenya has confirmed 314 cases of mpox (monkeypox) since the outbreak began in July 2024, with the Ministry of Health intensifying containment efforts across 22 counties.
Speaking during a health briefing, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, assured the public that the government is fully committed to controlling the outbreak and protecting citizens.
Mombasa County has recorded the highest number of infections at 146, followed by Busia (63), Nakuru (21), Kilifi (19), Nairobi (17), and Makueni (13). Additional cases have been reported in Taita Taveta, Uasin Gishu, Bungoma, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kiambu, Kericho, Machakos, Migori, Kisii, Kirinyaga, Isiolo, Kitui, Narok, Baringo, and Trans-Nzoia.
In the last 24 hours, three new cases were reported in Mombasa and one in Nairobi.
Currently, 33 patients are receiving treatment in various health facilities, while 54 others are under home-based care. A total of 222 individuals have recovered. Five fatalities have been reported, translating to a case fatality rate of 1.6%.
“We appreciate the continued efforts by the public and all stakeholders in combating this outbreak and safeguarding the well-being of our nation,” said CS Duale.
So far, health officials have traced 422 contacts linked to positive cases. Of these, 392 have completed the 21-day monitoring period, while the rest are still under observation. Fifteen of the traced contacts have since tested positive.
Screening efforts at points of entry across the country have intensified, with over 4.7 million travellers screened, leading to the identification and testing of suspected cases.
Out of 905 samples tested by the National Public Health Laboratories and partner facilities, 314 turned out positive—representing a positivity rate of 34.6%.
In collaboration with county governments and partner organizations, the Ministry of Health has scaled up surveillance activities and deployed Rapid Response Teams nationwide. These teams are tasked with tracing contacts, investigating cases, offering treatment, and providing psychosocial support to affected families.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns are ongoing in high-risk counties to promote hygiene, reduce stigma, and encourage early detection.
More than two million individuals have been sensitised at various points of entry.
The ministry continues to urge Kenyans to:
Avoid close contact with suspected or confirmed cases.
Wear gloves and face masks when attending to sick individuals.
Maintain high levels of personal hygiene.
Avoid sharing personal items.
Practice safe sex and report symptoms early.
Self-isolate and seek immediate care if infected.
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