Trans Nzoia Confirms First Mpox Case, Launches Emergency Response Plan

By: Ogonyo Centrine

Trans Nzoia County health authorities have acted quickly to manage a confirmed case of Mpox, a viral disease that has been steadily spreading in different parts of Kenya. The confirmed case, which was detected in Waitaluk Ward within Kiminini Sub-County, prompted an immediate and coordinated response from local health officials.

The Mpox diagnosis was confirmed after laboratory tests conducted by the National Public Health Laboratory in Nairobi. The individual is currently receiving treatment within the county, while the patient’s identity remains confidential to protect their privacy. Additionally, the health department has increased its surveillance and response measures to prevent any further spread of the virus.

According to the county’s Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services and Sanitation, Mr. Sam Ojwang, the county’s health team has been on the ground in Waitaluk Ward for several days. Speaking during a press briefing in Kitale — the county’s headquarters — Ojwang emphasized that his team is taking every necessary step to ensure the outbreak is contained.“Our officers have been active in the affected area, conducting investigations and also engaging the community to increase awareness of Mpox and how it can be managed,” he said.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans (zoonotic). It also spreads between humans through direct contact with infectious lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing. The disease typically causes symptoms such as fever, painful rashes, and swollen lymph nodes, and can be serious if not properly managed. The Ministry of Health has reported a total of 240 confirmed Mpox cases across Kenya as of July 10, 2025, with five deaths linked to the disease. This has prompted both national and county governments to increase their preparedness and response capacity.

However, in Trans Nzoia County, efforts to prepare for such an outbreak began even before the recent confirmed case. The county’s health department organized a two-day Mpox preparedness training workshop targeting healthcare workers from all 25 wards on July 21st. A total of 55 medical staff, including nurses and clinical officers, participated in the training.The workshop was organized in collaboration with USAID AMPATH Uzima and focused on strengthening the county’s ability to detect, report, and respond to possible cases of Mpox. Disease surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, prevention strategies, and community engagement were key topics covered during the workshop.

Robert Nyandika, the County Disease Surveillance Coordinator, noted that the training aimed to equip frontline health workers with the knowledge and skills needed for a timely and effective response.“We want to make sure that health workers can act quickly if a suspected case arises,” said Nyandika. “The training also ensures that this knowledge trickles down to other healthcare providers within the county,” he added.

In addition to preparing medical personnel, the county has also launched public awareness campaigns to educate residents on how to identify symptoms and take preventive measures. Health workers have been conducting sensitization sessions within communities, urging people to report any signs of Mpox, such as unusual rashes or flu-like symptoms.“We’re encouraging residents to stay alert and report any suspicious symptoms. Early detection is key in managing this disease effectively,” Mr. Ojwang emphasized.

Alongside these preventive measures, the health department is also working to counter misinformation. In the days following the announcement of the confirmed case, misleading photos circulated on social media, falsely claiming to show the affected patient. These images caused unnecessary panic among some residents.Mr. Ojwang addressed the issue firmly, saying, “The image being shared online is not from Trans Nzoia or even from Kenya. It is misleading and has created unnecessary fear among residents. We urge the public to rely on verified information from health authorities.”

He also warned against the spread of misinformation, stating that distributing false information, especially during a public health crisis, is not only irresponsible but also punishable by law.To further reassure the public, county officials have confirmed that all necessary safety protocols have been established to monitor and manage the situation. These include the isolation of suspected cases, collection and testing of samples, and close coordination with national health agencies.

Ojwang reiterated that the situation is under control and that the county remains vigilant.“We are constantly monitoring developments and will provide regular updates to the public to ensure transparency and maintain trust,” he said.The response in Trans Nzoia has been applauded for its speed and organization, with local and national collaboration proving effective in handling the initial stages of the outbreak. The county’s proactive approach — particularly the advance training of health workers and community education efforts — has put it in a stronger position to contain the disease.

Mpox, though not as easily transmissible as COVID-19, requires swift action once a case is detected to prevent outbreaks, especially in rural communities where access to healthcare can be limited. The disease is often self-limiting, but in vulnerable individuals, it can become more severe.With Mpox now present in more counties across Kenya, the Ministry of Health has called for heightened surveillance across the country. Counties are being encouraged to invest in early detection systems and ensure healthcare workers are trained to recognize and manage suspected cases.

Officials in Trans Nzoia say they remain committed to protecting residents through a combination of medical response, education, and vigilance. They continue to urge the public to practice good hygiene, report any suspicious symptoms early, and avoid contact with individuals who may be infected.As the national case count grows, the experience in Trans Nzoia County may serve as an example of how local governments can respond effectively through preparation, education, and prompt action.