In light of the recent confirmation of a second Mpox case in Kenya, renowned medic and business leader Dr. Moses Mwangi has called on Kenyans to take serious precautions against the ongoing outbreak of Mpox, a disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that the latest case involved a driver at the Malaba One Stop Border Post in Busia County. Health Cabinet Secretary Debra Barasa reported that the patient, who exhibited symptoms consistent with Mpox, had a recent travel history to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the epicenter of the current outbreak now spreading to other countries and regions. The patient has been isolated and is under active management in a local health facility.
Dr. Mwangi expressed his alignment with the Ministry of Health’s recommendations on measures to curb the spread of the disease. He emphasized the importance of regular handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
“Preventing the spread of Mpox requires diligent hygiene practices and avoiding close contact with individuals who exhibit symptoms of the disease,” Dr. Mwangi stated. “The primary mode of transmission is through physical contact with an infected person, whether through skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact, or contact with clothing and other materials that may have been contaminated.”
Dr. Mwangi urged anyone who shows signs of Mpox or suspects they may have been exposed to the virus to seek immediate medical assessment. “If you or your loved one exhibits signs and symptoms or may have been in contact with someone with Mpox disease, please visit the nearest health facility for assessment by a qualified health professional,” he advised.
As the country continues to monitor the situation, Dr. Mwangi’s appeal underscores the importance of public awareness and adherence to preventive measures to limit the spread of Mpox in Kenya.