A truck driver traveling from Uganda to Kenya has tested positive for Mpox at the Malaba border. This has been confirmed by the health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa. The driver, who had recently been in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), showed symptoms at the Malaba One Stop Border Post in Busia County. He is now in isolation and receiving treatment in Busia County. Authorities have stepped up surveillance in the region to prevent further spread.
Dr. Barasa stated that they have tested 42 samples, with 40 returning negative. They have also screened over 426,000 travelers at various entry points nationwide. This is Kenya’s second confirmed Mpox case. The announcement faced delays due to a conflict between Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni and Director General of Health Dr. Patrick Amoth over leadership in handling the situation.
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, presents with symptoms like rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. It spreads through direct contact with infected skin or respiratory droplets. The Ministry of Health has highlighted the risk of endemic transmission, especially given the high movement of people within East Africa. Typically, Mpox resolves within 2-4 weeks, but severe cases may require specialized medical care
Also read: DRC to Receive first Mpox Vaccine Next Week
