Kenya Amplifies Efforts to Combat Mpox with Urgent Health Response

By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16, 2024. Kenya is taking decisive action to contain the spread of mpox, after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared this infectious disease a public health emergency.

This move has heightened surveillance at border points and enhanced diagnostic capabilities. Dr. Patrick Amoth, the Director General of Health, emphasized the significance of this declaration during an interview with The Standard, noting that the current Mpox variant, known as Clade 1 MPXV, is not only more aggressive but also leads to severe illness and has a higher transmissibility rate.

With outbreaks reported in multiple African nations, including Uganda and Rwanda, the urgency for intervention has never been greater. According to data from Africa CDC, over 38,000 reported cases of mpox have emerged across the continent since 2022, resulting in 1,456 fatalities. 

Kenya confirmed its first case of mpox just two weeks ago in Taita Taveta, at the border with Tanzania. The infected individual had traveled from Uganda to Rwanda through Kenya. In response, health authorities quickly traced and screened at least 18 contacts, all of whom tested negative. To prevent further transmission, the Ministry of Health has identified hotspot counties such as Busia, Kisumu, and Nairobi, implementing enhanced surveillance efforts, especially in areas bordering Uganda. 

The Kenyan government is also investing in diagnostic infrastructure. Mpox testing centers have been established at key locations, including the National Virology Reference Laboratory and KEMRI facilities in Kisumu. These centers will utilize Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for rapid diagnostics. Dr. Amoth highlighted that previous investments during the Covid-19 pandemic have equipped Kenya with the capacity to quickly distribute diagnostic resources to additional counties if needed. 

Formerly known as monkeypox, mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which can be transmitted through close contact. Symptoms may include a painful rash, flu-like symptoms, pus-filled lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. While many recover without severe complications, some cases can lead to serious health issues or death. 

The Africa CDC has indicated that Africa requires 10 million vaccines to combat mpox but only 100,000 are currently available in the market. This shortage emphasizes the urgency of mobilizing regional and global resources.

Kenya’s proactive response showcases its commitment to safeguarding public health and mitigating the impacts of mpox, ensuring that health systems remain robust and responsive in the face of emerging public health challenges.

Source: The Nation News.

Related: Kenya confirms first mpox case

Published: August 16, 2024

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