Kenya Intensifies Actions to Address Viral Disease Threats

Nairobi, Feb 13 (NationPress) Kenya's health authorities have announced that comprehensive measures are being implemented to reduce the risks posed by viral diseases such as Marburg, mpox, and Ebola throughout the nation.

Cabinet Secretary for Health Deborah Barasa stated that while the Marburg virus outbreak is currently limited to the Kagera region of Tanzania, Kenya's geographic closeness and significant cross-border interactions present a substantial risk of imported cases.

Barasa highlighted that the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, has escalated surveillance and response strategies to maintain ongoing readiness.

"Moreover, prioritizing infection prevention and control training for healthcare personnel has been essential, with facilities receiving protective equipment to guarantee safety and preparedness," she explained during a weekly media briefing in Nairobi.

A statement from the ministry outlined key preparedness actions, including activating the Marburg Contingency Plan, enhancing screening at entry points, mobilizing laboratory networks, and formulating case management guidelines to contain the virus.

Barasa stressed Kenya's robust regional coordination, working in close collaboration with Tanzanian health authorities and the international medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres to boost disease surveillance and technical assistance.

Meanwhile, Patrick Amoth, the director-general for health in the Ministry of Health, urged increased vigilance and strict adherence to infection prevention measures to reduce the risk of Marburg transmission.

"By maintaining these protocols and fostering ongoing partnerships, Kenya aims to effectively mitigate the risk of Marburg virus spread and protect public health," Amoth stated.

Regarding mpox, Amoth reported that since Kenya declared an outbreak on July 31, 2024, there have been 38 confirmed cases across 12 counties, including one death. Half of these cases involve individuals with travel histories to areas affected by pox, such as Uganda and Rwanda.

Screening at entry points remains thorough, with over 3.2 million travelers screened, according to Amoth. However, challenges like low public risk awareness and insufficient isolation facilities have hindered response efforts. To tackle this, the ministry plans to improve risk communication, enhance county isolation capabilities, and engage communities more effectively.

Additionally, efforts are being made to facilitate access to mpox vaccines through collaborations with the WHO and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, he added.

In light of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda, with confirmed cases reported in the capital Kampala, the ministry has ramped up its alert level due to the risk of cross-border transmission, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Amoth indicated that the ministry has intensified preparedness measures, especially given the frequent movement of people between Kenya and Uganda. Key interventions include activating the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and repurposing the mpox task force to manage the Ebola response.

The health official noted that screening procedures have been significantly enhanced at high-risk entry points such as Busia, Malaba, Suam, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

"Designated arrival zones have been created for travelers from Uganda to minimize potential exposure risks. Furthermore, laboratory networks have been activated to ensure prompt and accurate diagnosis of suspected cases," Amoth stated.