The administration has stated that the monkeypox virus has not been detected in the country or the East African region.
On Wednesday in Kisii, Health Principal Secretary Susan Mochache stated that the government has increased surveillance of the virus at entry points.
“There are no cases of monkeypox in the country or any of the neighboring countries.” “I want to reassure Kenyans that we have taken steps to combat the disease if it is detected,” Mochache said.
“The disease has been documented in northern regions of the continent due to its proximity to wild animals, but we have only just learned about it due to its introduction into Europe.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), confirmed monkeypox cases have been identified in Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Health experts say close contact with an infected person is required to spread the monkeypox virus.
Infection can develop after exposure to broken skin, mucous membranes, respiratory droplets, infected body fluids or even contact with contaminated linen.
At the same time, PS Mochache urged Kenyans to observe the COVID-19 safety protocols even as the country continues to record an increased positivity rate.
“I want to insist that we follow the safety guidelines issued on COVID-19. Even though the mandatory wearing of masks was lifted, we are getting into the cold season and the cases have started rising so it is safer to have your mask on,” she stated.
The Health ministry on Tuesday noted an increase in the COVID-19 positivity rate to 3.3%, from 2.2% and 2.2% recorded earlier this week.
