Makueni County has confirmed Kenya’s sixth case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) after a 38-year-old truck driver, traveling from Uganda to Kenya, tested positive at Makindu Sub-county Hospital.
This was officially announced by Paul Musila, the Makueni County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, on September 24, 2024.
The truck driver, who showed symptoms consistent with Mpox, sought medical attention at Makindu Sub-county Hospital. Medical personnel quickly isolated the patient and conducted tests, which confirmed the Mpox infection. The driver was traveling from Uganda when he began to show symptoms, raising concerns about cross-border transmission.
Paul Musila, while addressing the press, assured the public that the patient is receiving medical care in isolation and that his condition is being closely monitored by health officials. Contact tracing efforts are also underway to identify anyone who may have come into close contact with the infected individual.
The confirmation of the sixth Mpox case has led to increased vigilance across border points and within the country. Musila emphasized the importance of border screening, especially for travelers coming from areas with known Mpox cases. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any symptoms that could be related to the virus.
Mpox is a viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms, fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. It spreads through close contact with an infected person or contaminated materials such as bedding and clothing.
Kenya’s Ministry of Health has reinforced measures to prevent the spread of Mpox, including the deployment of health teams to monitor high-risk areas like transport hubs and border points. The ministry is also collaborating with regional health authorities in Uganda to share information and strengthen cross-border cooperation in handling the outbreak.
Paul Musila reminded Kenyans to follow preventive measures, including good hygiene practices, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, and seeking medical advice when necessary. He further encouraged the public to refrain from panic, noting that Mpox is manageable and less contagious than some other viral diseases when proper precautions are observed.
The Kenyan government continues to invest in public health awareness campaigns to educate citizens about Mpox, its transmission, and its symptoms.
Health officials have intensified training for healthcare workers to ensure quick identification and management of Mpox cases. As of now, Mpox remains a concern, but the Ministry of Health reassures Kenyans that all efforts are in place to contain the virus and prevent further spread.
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