NAIROBI, Kenya — At least 19 people have died from mpox in Kenya since the outbreak was confirmed three months ago, according to the country’s Ministry of Health.
The ministry, in a statement released Monday, said 1,298 confirmed cases have been recorded across the East African nation, with the outbreak now reported in more than 40 counties.
Mombasa County has recorded the highest number of cases at 452, followed by the capital, Nairobi, with 320 cases, highlighting the continued spread of the disease in some of the country’s most densely populated and highly connected areas.
The Ministry of Health identified seven counties as high-risk areas, citing their location along major transport corridors and proximity to international border crossings.
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Among the counties classified as high-risk are Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi and Nakuru, with authorities particularly concerned about the movement of people across borders and along major transportation routes.
The ministry warned that mpox remains a significant public health threat despite ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak.
Health authorities are calling for intensified public awareness campaigns, stronger disease surveillance and increased screening at county border points to identify suspected infections early and prevent further transmission.
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Officials are also urging communities to remain vigilant and seek medical attention when symptoms associated with mpox develop.
Kenya Maintains Ebola Preparedness
Beyond mpox, the Kenyan government said it is maintaining surveillance for other potentially serious infectious diseases, including Ebola.
Although no confirmed Ebola cases have been reported in Kenya, the Ministry of Health said preparedness measures are in place to respond rapidly to suspected cases and prevent the virus from entering the country.
The government said it will continue strengthening disease surveillance, vaccination, public education and coordination among health authorities as it works to contain the mpox outbreak and prepare for other emerging health threats.
With infections continuing to be detected across the country, health officials stressed that sustained public cooperation and early detection will remain critical to preventing further deaths and limiting the spread of mpox.
