Mpox outbreak in Kenya

Kenya has reported its first case of mpox, detected in a passenger traveling from Uganda to Rwanda, prompting warnings from the East African Community (EAC) to educate the public on prevention measures. This comes as the Central African Republic declared a new outbreak of mpox, with infections spreading to the capital, Bangui, raising concerns about increased transmission in densely populated areas. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 160% spike in mpox cases across Africa in the past year, with limited access to vaccines and treatments exacerbating the situation. The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded over 12,300 suspected cases and approximately 479 deaths, highlighting the severe impact of the virus in the region. Health officials emphasize that mpox outbreaks are now present in ten African countries, including recent confirmations in Burundi and Rwanda. As the virus primarily spreads through close contact, vigilance and public health measures are crucial to prevent further outbreaks.