Kenya has confirmed 1,298 mpox cases and 19 deaths, with the disease now reported in 40 of the country’s 47 counties, raising concern among health authorities over continued community transmission.

Mombasa has recorded the highest number of cases, followed by Nairobi, while Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi and Nakuru are also among the most affected counties.

Seven counties, particularly those along major transport corridors and border points, have been identified as being at higher risk of transmission, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance and public awareness.

Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni warned that Kenya is not yet out of danger and urged the public to remain vigilant.

“Mpox is still a threat to the country. We need to remain mindful and take the necessary precautions,” Muthoni said while chairing a departmental management meeting with heads of departments under the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards.

She said the virus continues to circulate within communities, making early detection, surveillance and public awareness critical to preventing further spread.

“It is easier to visit isolation wards in our hospitals and find mpox patients than it is with many other diseases. The virus is still silently present in the community and is affecting many people, particularly around our border points,” she said.

The Ministry of Health has called for continued sensitisation and enhanced screening at points of entry, particularly along busy transport corridors where movement of people could facilitate transmission.

What Kenyans should know

Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected person, including contact with their rash, sores or bodily fluids. It can also spread through contaminated items such as bedding and clothing.

Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness and a rash or skin lesions. The rash can appear on the face, hands, mouth, genitals and other parts of the body.

Most infections can be mild, but severe illness can occur, particularly among people with weakened immune systems.

Health authorities advise Kenyans to avoid close contact with anyone showing an unexplained rash or suspected mpox symptoms and not to share personal items such as towels, clothing or bedding with an infected person. Regular handwashing and prompt medical attention when symptoms develop are also encouraged.

The continued spread across 40 counties highlights the importance of early reporting and testing. Some infections may present with mild symptoms, meaning people may not immediately recognise the disease or seek care.

With cases now recorded across much of the country, health officials are urging communities, particularly those living near border points and major transport routes, to remain alert and report suspected infections promptly.