The Nakuru County Government has intensified its efforts to combat the spread of Mpox (formerly Monkeypox) by activating its Public Health Emergency Operation Centre (PHEOC) and forming an Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate response activities.
Since confirming its first Mpox case on August 31—a 37-year-old truck driver from Rwanda—the county has reported six cases in total. Working alongside the Ministry of Health, Nakuru has implemented a series of measures, including contact tracing, enhanced surveillance, and public awareness campaigns.
High-Risk Areas Targeted
County Director of Public Health, Ms. Elizabeth Kiptoo, highlighted the classification of the Northern Transport Corridor as a high-risk zone. Targeted interventions have been launched in eight mapped areas along the corridor. Both Indicator-Based Surveillance (IBS) and Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) systems are being employed to detect and prevent further spread.
“We have sensitized 1,476 health workers on Mpox surveillance and detection. So far, 42 close contacts of confirmed cases have been traced, with 37 completing follow-up and five still under observation,” Ms. Kiptoo stated.
Public Awareness and Preventative Measures
Public education campaigns are underway to inform residents about preventive measures, including:
- Isolation of infected individuals from humans and animals.
- Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves.
- Regular handwashing and disinfecting contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of Mpox include fever, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and body aches. The virus spreads through contact with infected persons, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials.
Healthcare Preparedness
The county has prepared isolation facilities with a total bed capacity of 192 across multiple hospitals, including Naivasha, Gilgil, Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital, and others. Sample collection kits have been strategically positioned in sub-counties, and laboratory staff have been trained on sample management.
Out of 39 samples collected, 32 tested negative, while six returned positive results. The county has also sensitized 15 guesthouses, bars, and lodges on Mpox prevention.
Vaccination and Prevention Recommendations
According to Africa CDC, two vaccines—JYNNEOS and ACAM2000—are recommended for Mpox prevention, with JYNNEOS being preferred. The two-dose vaccine is administered four weeks apart and is effective two weeks after the second dose.
The vaccines are prioritized for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, immunocompromised individuals, sex workers, and those who have had close contact with confirmed cases. Africa CDC does not recommend mass vaccination for Mpox at this stage.
Moving Forward
The Nakuru County Government assures residents of its commitment to preventing the spread of Mpox through proactive measures, vaccination, and continuous monitoring. Ms. Kiptoo emphasized that swift action and public cooperation are vital to keeping the disease under control.
