03
Sun, Nov

Boost as Kenya receives Mpox testing kits

CS Barasa receives Mpox testing kits and medicines for neglected tropical diseases. Photo/Courtesy.

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By Jabali Media

The government has received Mpox testing kits and medicines for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

The donation was made by USAID and other health partners, and delivered through the World Health Organization (WHO).  

Speaking during the handover on Monday, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa, said the supplies will strengthen the country’s efforts to combat these diseases.

“This timely support comes as our nation grapples with an ongoing Mpox outbreak. The introduction of these testing kits will enhance our capacity to detect and respond to Mpox cases more swiftly and effectively, ultimately saving lives and curbing the spread of this outbreak,” said the CS.

She highlighted the importance of Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns in controlling NTDs, which include lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis, particularly in high-burden regions.

WHO Representative to Kenya, Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, confirmed the donation of 15,215,000 NTD tablets valued at USD 1.6 million, intended for this month’s MDA.

He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s goal of eliminating NTDs, including schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases, by 2030.

Kenya has confirmed over 10 Mpox cases across the country. Five cases are currently in management while seven have fully recovered.

The cases have been confirmed in Nakuru (2), Kajiado (2), Taita Taveta, Busia, Mombasa, Bungoma, Kericho, Kilifi and Nairobi.

Mpox, according to WHO, is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus.

The virus can spread to humans from an animal host, such as rodents or nonhuman primates such as monkeys.

The virus also can spread between people.

In humans, Mpox can cause flu-like symptoms and an itchy, painful rash. Treatment for most people with Mpox is to relieve symptoms.

There is an Mpox vaccine. People at high risk of the illness or who were recently exposed to the virus may be able to get the vaccine.

Most people recover without complications. But some people can get seriously ill from Mpox. Rarely, Mpox can be deadly.

Mpox symptoms tend to start within 21 days after you come in contact with the virus. You may have symptoms that are like the flu, including a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and a cough.

Other symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever and chills, headache, backache, fatigue, muscle aches and backaches.

Treatment for most people with Mpox is aimed at easing symptoms. Care may include preventing skin damage from the Mpox rash or using pain medication you can get without a prescription. 

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