Kenya is rolling out an urgent response to contain the rising cases of Mpox while preparing for the potential spread of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD).

With 36 confirmed Mpox cases recorded since July 2024, the Ministry of Health has declared a multi-pronged approach to curb the outbreak and shield vulnerable populations from the escalating threat.

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni Muriuki, revealed the government’s strategy during a Media Sensitization Meeting on Thursday.

The plan includes a targeted vaccination campaign for high-risk groups such as healthcare workers, individuals exposed to confirmed cases, children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

“The Ministry will soon roll out Mpox vaccinations, targeting high-risk groups, including contacts of confirmed cases,” said Muthoni.

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She added, “Mpox is transmitted through close contact and poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.”

Nakuru, Mombasa, and Busia counties are leading in the number of infections, though cases have also emerged in Taita Taveta, Kericho, and Kilifi.

In the past week alone, five new cases have been reported, highlighting the urgency of the vaccination drive.

As misinformation spreads alongside the virus, Muthoni underscored the critical role of public awareness campaigns.

“We call on the media to play a pivotal role in communicating the importance of this vaccination drive and countering misinformation that may arise,” she stated.

The Ministry’s response extends beyond vaccinations. Enhanced surveillance systems, distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE), and specialised training for healthcare workers form the backbone of the containment strategy.

Public education campaigns promoting proper hygiene and other preventive measures are also being intensified.

While combating Mpox, the Ministry is maintaining heightened vigilance at Kenya’s borders, particularly following the Marburg outbreak in Tanzania’s Kagera region.

“While we remain vigilant in the fight against Mpox, we are also prepared for the possibility of a Marburg outbreak,” Muthoni remarked, assuring the public of the Ministry’s readiness.

The disease has claimed one life in Kenya—a truck driver in Bungoma County with a compromised immune system—underscoring the need to protect those at heightened risk.

Data from the first 23 cases showed symptoms such as rashes (100 per cent), fever, sore throat, and genital lesions, with physical and sexual contact cited as key transmission modes.

The Ministry said it is working closely with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to strengthen the country’s preparedness and adopt global best practices.

“We are actively preparing for all scenarios, including more cases, by working with global and regional counterparts to adopt best practices and develop emergency preparedness plans, and I am confident we will overcome these public health challenges with collaboration,” Muthoni said.

With surveillance strengthened and partnerships in place, the Ministry of Health remains resolute in its efforts to protect Kenyans from the twin threats of Mpox and Marburg, reassuring the nation that a united response will pave the way for containment.