Govt Warns Kenyans With Multiple Romantic Partners, Says They are at Higher Risk of Getting Mpox
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has identified individuals at a higher risk of contracting Mpox.
In its alert, MOH emphasized that healthcare workers, close contacts of confirmed cases, and individuals with multiple romantic partners face an elevated risk of infection.
The Ministry of Health strongly advises the public and essential service providers to take protective measures.
“Healthcare workers, close contacts of confirmed cases, and those with multiple sexual partners are at a greater risk of contracting Mpox,” the advisory reads.
“Take the necessary precautions to safeguard yourself against Mpox.”
Government Advisory
On August 28, 2024, Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Deborah Mulongo Barasa issued a Mpox advisory for pregnant women following the confirmation of the country’s second case.
The advisory highlighted that pregnant women infected with the Mpox virus can transmit the infection to their unborn child.
“Pregnant women with Mpox are at risk of transmitting the virus to their unborn child,” the MOH alert states.
Mpox Vaccine
On the night of August 28, 2024, Director General of Health Patrick Amoth announced during a live TV interview that the government is determined to control the spread of Mpox, revealing that Africa is expected to receive 2 million doses of the Mpox vaccine by year-end.
“Africa is set to receive 2 million doses of the Mpox vaccine by the end of the year, aiming for a target of 10 million doses,” Amoth stated.
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“Mpox is emerging as a global health crisis. Despite reporting only two cases, the government remains dedicated to closing all gaps through strategic measures to prevent further issues.”
“Mpox represents a serious public health concern, with two cases reported in the country. While one patient has recovered, the other remains in isolation. The public is urged to stay alert until the situation stabilizes.”
Plans to Curb Mpox
On August 16, 2024, during a live interview on a local TV station, Principal Secretary of Public Health and Standards Mary Muthoni disclosed that the country has heightened its surveillance in all 47 counties, particularly at border points, to prevent the spread of Mpox.
Muthoni also mentioned that East African countries are in the advanced stages of establishing data-sharing models, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding among neighboring nations, which will be crucial in controlling Mpox before it spreads further.
“Kenya has robust disease surveillance across all 47 counties, especially at entry points. We are also raising awareness among the public on how to prevent Mpox,” Muthoni said.
“Cross-border information sharing between Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries is in place, with ongoing efforts to formalize these data-sharing mechanisms.”
Govt Warns Kenyans With Multiple Romantic Partners, Says They are at Higher Risk of Getting Mpox
