The government has announced plans to roll out vaccinations against Mpox following a recent increase in cases. The number of reported cases has reached 36, prompting the vaccination campaign, which will target high-risk individuals.
High-risk groups for Mpox include children, pregnant individuals, immunocompromised individuals, and people with multiple or new sexual partners. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that progresses through several stages. Initial flu-like symptoms appear within 3 to 17 days after exposure, followed by the development of a rash.
The rash often starts as flat spots that evolve into raised bumps, fluid-filled blisters, and eventually scab over. It can appear on the face, inside the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus, and typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks before healing.
According to the government, Nakuru County and its neighboring regions, along with border areas, have been identified as high-risk zones for Mpox. Nakuru accounts for 10 of the 36 reported cases, with five new cases recorded in the past week.
At a stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mitigating the spread of Mpox. “We are closely monitoring emerging cases and implementing measures to reduce risks. Campaigns and awareness programs have been initiated to educate the public on preventive measures,” she said.
Other counties reporting Mpox cases include Mombasa (3 cases), Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Kilifi, Makueni, Kiambu, and Uasin Gishu. Over the past week, Kericho recorded one case, Taita Taveta one, Busia two, and Kilifi one.
How the Vaccine is Administered
The vaccine is administered using a two-pronged needle dipped into the vaccine solution, which is then used to make multiple small punctures in the skin, typically on the upper arm. This technique introduces the live vaccinia virus into the superficial layers of the skin, prompting a localized infection. Within 3 to 4 days, a red, itchy sore develops at the vaccination site, indicating a successful “take.” This sore progresses to a blister, then a scab, and typically heals within 2 to 4 weeks, leaving a small scar.
During the healing process, the live virus present at the vaccination site can be transmitted to other parts of the body or to other individuals.
