NAIROBI — Kenya’s Mpox outbreak is growing, with nine new cases confirmed this week, pushing the national tally to 137.
Health authorities say the virus is now spreading beyond its earlier concentration in the Northern Transport Corridor. The Ministry of Health has identified infections in 17 counties, with Busia and Mombasa seeing the highest numbers.
“This is a concerning development,” said Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards. “We’re tracking the spread closely and increasing our response efforts accordingly.”
Busia has reported 48 cases so far, followed by Mombasa with 37. Nakuru, Makueni, and Nairobi are also among the affected counties.
Tracking and Testing
In total, 597 samples have been tested at the National Public Health Laboratory and partner labs. So far, 137 have come back positive.
Authorities have also identified 400 contacts of confirmed cases. Of those, 315 completed the recommended 21-day monitoring period. Nine of them later tested positive.
To stem the spread, over 4.8 million travellers have been screened at border points and airports, with suspected cases undergoing further checks.
Public Health Push
The government is rolling out an aggressive public awareness campaign. So far, 15 million SMS messages have been sent to inform Kenyans about how Mpox spreads and how to prevent it.
“People can also access Mpox prevention tips by calling 719 or dialling *719# at no cost,” Ms Muthoni added.
She assured the public that containment remains a top priority. “The Ministry of Health remains committed to controlling the Mpox outbreak and protecting the health and safety of all Kenyans.”
Global Health Watch
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also flagged the Mpox situation as a continuing public health emergency.
Speaking on Monday during an International Health Regulations meeting, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that the global body is updating its recommendations to help countries like Kenya manage the outbreak.
“The resurgence in cases meets the criteria of a public health emergency,” Dr Tedros said.
A Nation on Alert
Back home, health officials are doubling down on contact tracing and community outreach. Local clinics and hospitals have been told to watch for symptoms and report suspected cases quickly.
Mpox, a viral illness with symptoms similar to smallpox but usually milder, spreads through close contact. Kenya’s first cases were clustered along the Northern Transport Corridor, but the disease has since surfaced in more urban and rural counties.
While there is no immediate cause for alarm, health experts stress the importance of early detection and hygiene.
“This virus can be contained,” said Dr Lydia Otieno, a Nairobi-based infectious disease specialist. “But that requires vigilance from both the health system and the public.”
As the Ministry expands testing and education, officials are urging Kenyans to remain cautious and informed.
“Don’t panic,” Ms Muthoni said, “but do stay alert.”
