Kenya Reports First Mpox Death
Kenya has recorded its first mpox death, with 13 confirmed cases in the country. The National Public Health Laboratory received 238 samples, of which 13 tested positive. No new cases were confirmed in the last 24 hours.
Current Situation
68 contacts identified, 61 followed for 21 days, 3 tested positive, and 4 under monitoring. 21,972 travellers screened at entry points, with 366,838 people sensitised about mpox.
Clade Information
Africa CDC reports Clade I in several African countries and Clade II in others. WHO declared an emergency due to the spread of Clade I cases and the emergence of Clade Ib with high human-to-human transmission potential.
Prevention Measures
Healthcare facilities prepared, risk communication in place, screening and contact tracing ongoing. Rapid response teams deployed, mental health support provided, and public education efforts intensified.
Warning against relying solely on lab tests for diagnosis, and highlighting the importance of clinical and epidemiological data interpretation.
Transmission
Mpox spreads through close contact, including skin-to-skin, mouth-to-mouth, or contact with contaminated objects. Public awareness crucial in preventing further spread.