In a significant move to address rising public health concerns, Kenya has received critical supplies of Mpox testing kits and medications for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
The donations, delivered through a collaboration between the World Health Organization (WHO), USAID, and other health partners, are aimed at bolstering the country’s capacity to combat these diseases, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.
During a formal handover ceremony on Monday, October 14, 2024, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa underscored the importance of these contributions, particularly for mass drug administration (MDA) efforts.
She noted that the medicines would target lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis – diseases that remain prevalent in the country’s high-burden areas.
Expressing gratitude for the support, Barasa said the donations from WHO and partners are a lifeline for those most in need, stressing that the Health Ministry aims to ensure that no community is left behind.
The new Mpox testing kits will significantly enhance Kenya’s ability to detect and respond to the disease, which has seen a recent surge in cases.
WHO’s Representative to Kenya, Abdourahmane Diallo, highlighted the magnitude of the NTD medicine donation: 15,215,000 tablets, valued at USD 1.6 million, are earmarked for distribution during October’s MDA campaign.
Diallo reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s ambitious goal of eradicating NTDs, including schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases, by 2030.
12 confirmed cases
The latest health initiative follows Kenya’s confirmation of a rise in Mpox cases.
In a statement on October 4, 2024, the Ministry of Health said that out of the 12 confirmed cases, no deaths have been witnessed, with other patients receiving treatment and getting discharged.
“In the last 24 hours, two (2) new cases of Mpox have been confirmed, bringing the total number of confirmed cases across the country to twelve (12). The cases are distributed as follows: Nakuru (2), Kajiado (2), Taita Taveta (1), Busia (1), Nairobi (1), Mombasa (1), Makueni (1), Bungoma (1), Kericho (1) and Kilifi (1). Of the confirmed cases, five (5) are currently on management, and seven (7) have fully recovered,” the statement reads in part.
The ministry also disclosed that the various points of entry in the country were under surveillance and that screening for Mpox had been stepped up.
The statement added that out of the 68 travellers screened, eight had been taken through further monitoring while 60 had completed a 21-day follow-up.
“So far, 68 contacts have been identified, 60 of whom have successfully completed the required 21-day follow-up. Two (2) contacts have tested positive for Mpox, and six (6) others remain under active follow-up. More In the past 24 hours, a total of 15,269 travellers have been screened at various Points of Entry (POEs), bringing the cumulative number to 1,161,622 travellers screened across 26 POEs. The National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) has received 230 samples for testing, of which 12 have tested positive. 217 have returned negative results, and one (1) is pending results,” the Ministry added.
As Kenya continues its efforts to combat NTDs and emerging diseases like Mpox, the collaborative support from international health organizations and government bodies remains crucial.