Kisumu County has confirmed its first case of Mpox, triggering an urgent public health response as health officials move to trace individuals who may have been exposed during the patient’s travel last week.
In a statement on Monday, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation Dr. Gregory Ganda said the case was confirmed by the national reference laboratory.
He said the patient, a 42-year-old man, recently travelled from South Sudan and developed symptoms while still in Juba.
He then travelled from Busia to Kisumu on a Simba Coach bus on Tuesday, November 19, departing at 7am and arriving at around 10am.
Dr. Ganda said anyone who travelled on the same bus at that time is considered a potential contact and should seek medical attention if they develop symptoms.
The patient was admitted to Kisumu County Referral Hospital (KCRH) on the same day and placed in isolation, where he remains under close medical observation.
Dr. Ganda said the patient was stable and was receiving supportive care and specialised treatment at the facility.
He said the County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has activated a coordinated response that includes isolation of the confirmed case, tracing of all contacts, heightened surveillance across health facilities, and sensitization of healthcare workers and the community.
He said that so far, four close contacts have been traced and are under observation for any signs of illness.
Dr. Ganda asked all the passengers who travelled on the Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on November 19th to contact the Emergency Operations Centre on the toll-free line 0800 720 575.
He added that a working case definition has also been shared with all health facilities in the area to support early detection.
Dr. Ganda said Mpox spreads through close physical contact with infected persons, their body fluids, skin lesions, contaminated materials, or through prolonged face-to-face interaction urging residents to remain cautious and avoid close contact with anyone who has unexplained rashes or sores.
He further directed Kisumu residents to wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, avoid sharing personal items, and seek immediate medical attention if they develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, muscle aches, or a new rash.
Dr. Ganda assured the public that the county government remains committed to protecting residents’ health and would continue issuing updates as the situation develops.
By Chris Mahandara
