Kenyans With Multiple Partners At High Risk Of Contracting MPox, Govt Warns

• The Ministry of Health (MoH) has alerted that healthcare workers are at high risk of contracting Mpox due to their close contact with infected individuals.
• Individuals who are in close contact with confirmed Mpox cases are also identified as high-risk by the MoH
• Kenyans with multiple sexual partners are particularly vulnerable to Mpox, according to the latest advisory from the ministry
• The alert is part of the MoH’s efforts to raise awareness and prevent the spread of Mpox, stressing the need for caution

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued an alert identifying groups of people at a high risk of contracting Mpox.

Who is at risk of contracting Mpox?

In its latest advisory, the MOH highlighted that healthcare workers and individuals in close contact with confirmed Mpox cases are at a high risk of infection.

Kenyans with multiple romantic partners are also particularly vulnerable to the infection, with the ministry emphasising the need for caution and preventive measures.

"Healthcare workers, persons in close contact with confirmed cases, and those with multiple séxual partners have a higher chance of getting infected," the MoH warned in its alert.

The MoH's alert is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness and curb the spread of Mpox, which is continuing to develop as a public health concern.

Symptoms and how to prevent the disease

The Ministry of Health had initially detailed the symptoms of the disease, noting that an infected individual may exhibit signs such as a skin rash or mucosal lesions, fever, headache, generalised aches, and swollen lymph nodes.

However, individuals can avoid contracting the disease by avoiding close contact with those showing Mpox symptoms or confirmed cases.

One can also ensure their safety by washing their hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitiser.

It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if any symptoms occur and to isolate yourself to prevent the virus from spreading.

Mpox vaccine maker speaks

Earlier, Danish drugmaker Bavarian Nordic said it was "better prepared" to supply its Mpox vaccine for the current surge of the virus than it was for the 2022 epidemic.

The vaccine maker said last week that it was ready to supply up to 10 million doses of its vaccine targeting Mpox by the end of 2025, with some 500,000 doses currently in stock.

According to the company, the level of panic is not as high as in 2022-2023.

Speaking at a presentation of its quarterly earnings, CEO Paul Chaplin said, "We are better prepared".

Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura Guthua, journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke