People who have close contact with someone who has Mpox are at a significant risk of contracting the virus.
This includes face-to-face interactions like talking, skin-to-skin contact such as touching or engaging in sexual activities, mouth-to-mouth contact like kissing, and mouth-to-skin contact such as oral sex.
Additionally, those who come into contact with items and surfaces that an infected person has touched, such as clothing, bedding, and electronics, are also at risk.
Individuals living with someone diagnosed with Mpox should take precautions to avoid infection.
It’s crucial for a healthcare provider to assess whether the infected person can be safely isolated at home.
Health workers should adhere to strict infection prevention protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper procedures when handling diagnostic samples and medical sharps.
In Kenya, the first case of Mpox was confirmed on July 31, 2024.
The Ministry of Health has advised that household members, sexual partners, and those in close interaction with Mpox patients are at higher risk.
Health workers without proper PPE, individuals who handle certain animals, lab workers, children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions are also vulnerable.
The Ministry emphasizes the importance of hygiene practices and seeking medical advice if symptoms appear to prevent further spread of the virus.