KIMININI, Trans Nzoia July 29 -The Trans Nzoia County Health Department has moved swiftly to contain a confirmed case of Mpox, a viral disease that has made its way across Kenya.
This new development, first reported in Kiminini Sub-County, has prompted local health officials to take immediate action to prevent the spread of the disease and to keep the public well-informed.
The case, confirmed through laboratory analysis by the National Public Health Laboratory in Nairobi, was first reported in Waitaluk Ward.
The patient, whose identity remains confidential for privacy reasons, is currently receiving care locally, while the county’s health team remains on high alert.
The situation is being closely monitored, and more samples are being taken for testing to ensure the outbreak doesn’t spread further.
Mr. Sam Ojwang (inset), the Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services and Sanitation in Trans Nzoia County, assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to manage the situation effectively.
“Our health team has been active in Waitaluk Ward for the past two days, conducting further assessments and educating the community on the proper management of Mpox,” he stated during a recent briefing in Kitale, the county headquarters.
Mpox, a zoonotic viral disease that spreads through direct contact with infected skin lesions or bodily fluids, has become an increasing concern across the country.
The disease, which causes painful rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, has prompted the Kenyan government to take heightened precautions.
As of July 10th, there are 240 confirmed cases nationwide, and five fatalities have been reported.
This has led county health departments to ramp up their response and surveillance efforts, including the training of frontline healthcare workers to ensure they are well-equipped to handle the outbreak.
It’s worth noting that the County Health Department took a proactive approach well before this particular case was reported.
On July 21st, Trans Nzoia County hosted a two-day intensive training workshop for healthcare workers from all 25 wards, with 55 clinical officers and nurses attending.
This workshop was part of a broader initiative to prepare the region for any potential Mpox cases and to bolster the county’s capacity to respond rapidly.
It was organised in collaboration between the county’s Department of Health and Sanitation and USAID AMPATH Uzima, which was an essential part of Trans Nzoia’s effort to avoid an outbreak.
“Through training, we are enhancing our readiness for immediate response and ensuring that knowledge is passed down to other health workers, which allows for a more effective long-term response,” said Robert Nyandika, the County Disease Surveillance Coordinator.
The training covered crucial aspects such as epidemiology, rapid response protocols, detection, reporting, prevention, and community engagement.
The county health department, along with national authorities, has been keen on engaging the public, emphasising the importance of awareness, proper hygiene, and communication.
Through sensitisation campaigns in local communities, health workers are actively educating residents on how to prevent transmission.
“We’re urging people to maintain a high index of suspicion for Mpox, especially if they notice any unusual skin lesions or symptoms among community members,” explained Ojwang.
Local health officials have also been addressing concerns over misinformation circulating on social media.
Photos falsely purporting to show the Mpox case in Trans Nzoia have been shared online, causing unnecessary panic among residents. Ojwang took a firm stand against the spread of false information.
“The picture being shared is not from our country. This is total misinformation and misrepresentation of the situation,” he stated while adding that: “Spreading lies or propaganda is not allowed by law. We urge the public to rely on verified information to avoid unnecessary panic.”
The swift response by the county’s health team and the commitment to public health were highlighted as key factors in containing the situation.
Mr. Ojwang confirmed, “We have established appropriate protocols to manage the situation and prevent further spread. We are closely monitoring all developments and will keep the public updated regularly.”
