The Ministry of Health has continued to urge Kenyans to take necessary precautionary measures to protect themselves from contracting MPox.
On Thursday, August 29, the ministry listed a group of people at high risk of contracting the infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
It listed healthcare workers who mostly handle the infected patients, people in close contact with confirmed cases and notably, people with multiple sexual partners.
The disease causes a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. Most people fully recover, but some get very sick.
Recently, the government, through the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, issued a directive warning Kenyans against handling or consuming bush meat to prevent the spread of Mpox in the country.
In a press statement, Tourism CS Rebecca Miano noted that zoonotic diseases, which can be bacterial, viral, or parasitic, spread through direct contact or via food, water, or the surrounding environment.
Miano also confirmed that the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Wildlife Training and Research Institute (WRTI) are collaborating with the Ministry of Health as part of the national Mpox management team, which is currently receiving updates on the outbreak.
On August 24, Kenya confirmed its second case of Mpox in Busia.
He exhibited symptoms after travelling from the outbreak epicentre in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The patient was isolated and is under active management in one health facility in Busia County.
How to prevent yourself from contracting Mpox
1. Avoid close contact with individuals who have Mpox or show disease symptoms.
2. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, combs, and clothing.
3. Practice good hygiene by regularly washing your hands or using sanitiser.
4. Be cautious about the meat you consume.
5. Exercise caution around wild animals.
