An urgent advisory has been issued by the Ministry of Health Kenya after confirming the first M-pox case at the Taita-Taveta One-Stop border Point.
It was found that the affected person was in transit from Uganda to Rwanda through Kenya, and this has given rise to the possibility of the virus spreading to the region.
Previously known as Monkeypox, M-pox is a serious illness caused by the Monkeypox virus. It is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, and subsequently between humans.
M-pox can spread through:
1. Direct Contact: Getting in contact with an infected person’s secretions from the body or skin sores.
2. Contaminated Objects: Managing objects that have come into contact with the virus, such as clothing, bedding, or other materials.
3. Respiratory Droplets: Extended face-to-face contact, which puts family members and healthcare professionals at higher risk.
4. Animals: Eating undercooked meat from an infected animal or getting bitten or scratched by one.
The symptoms of M-pox typically appear 5 to 21 days after exposure and can include:
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Lymph node enlargement
- Back pain
- Sore muscles
- Cold feeling
- Exhaustion: A recognizable rash that begins on the face, moves to other areas of the body, and eventually forms a scab that falls off. The rash progresses through phases, from macules to papules to vesicles to pustules.
The Ministry of Health is actively working to trace contacts and contain the outbreak, but public cooperation is essential. As a hospital, we recommend the following precautionary measures:
1. Maintain Hygiene: Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wash your hands frequently with soap and water
2. Avoid Close Contact: Refrain from coming into close physical contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with the virus or who is exhibiting M-pox symptoms.
3. Use Protective Gear: When tending to someone who has the M-pox or is exhibiting symptoms, put on gloves and a face mask.
4. Seek Medical Attention: If you or someone you know experiences symptoms that are consistent with M-pox, get medical help right once.
5. Stay Informed: Stay current on information from dependable sources, such as the Ministry of Health.
As we navigate this challenging time, Nairobi Adventist Hospital remains steadfast in our mission to safeguard the health of our community. Let us all play our part in preventing the spread of M-pox and protecting the most vulnerable among us.