The Ministry of Health in Kenya has confirmed a third case of Mpox, also known as monkeypox, in the country.
The latest patient, a 30-year-old woman with a recent travel history to Uganda, is currently under isolation and in stable condition.
This brings the total number of confirmed Mpox cases in Kenya to three as the previous two cases were detected in Taita Taveta and Busia counties.
"The Ministry would like to inform the public of a third laboratory confirmed case of the disease in Nairobi. The patient is a 30-year-old female with a history of travel to Uganda one week ago," Director General for Health in the Ministry of Health, Patrick confirmed on Friday via a public update.
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Despite these developments, the Ministry of Health has assured the public that the situation remains under control and there is no need for widespread panic.
To date, a total of 89 samples have been tested for Mpox, with 79 returning negative.
Of the remaining 10 samples, three have been confirmed positive, while seven are still being analyzed. Additionally, over half a million travellers have been screened at Kenyan ports of entry.
The Ministry of Health has implemented various measures to contain the outbreak, including activating rapid response teams and public health emergency operation centres.
They are also working closely with county governments and other agencies to ensure necessary precautions are in place.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health emphasized the importance of public awareness and cooperation in preventing the spread of Mpox.
They urged citizens to adhere to the health guidelines listed below and avoid stigmatizing individuals affected by the disease:
Regular handwashing: Use soap and running water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid close contact: Maintain a distance from individuals exhibiting Mpox-like symptoms.
Limit sharing personal items: Avoid sharing items like towels, utensils, or clothing.
Seek medical attention: If you or someone you know has Mpox symptoms, visit a health facility for assessment.
Exercise caution with animals: Avoid contact with wild animals and avoid consuming uninspected meat.
Limit non-essential travel: Avoid travelling to countries with significant Mpox outbreaks.
The Ministry of Health also urged the public to be cautious of misinformation circulating on social media and to rely on official sources for accurate information.
They assured the public that they are closely monitoring the outbreak and will adjust their response strategies as needed.