The Ministry Of Health has announced arrival of 10700 doses of the modified Vaccinia Ankara- Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) vaccines to control the ongoing Mpox outbreak in the country.

In collaborative efforts with the government of Kenya, supported by Africa CDC, World Health Organization, UNICEF and GAVI, the vaccines have been delivered in the country.

The Ministry of Health further emphasized the importance of vaccination to limit further spread of Mpox.

The organizations stated that the vaccination was equally effective to save millions of lives, to control and prevent further outbreaks.

This move comes in response to recent uproar of Mpox cases in the country.

Since the outbreak on 31st July 2024, a total number of 67 Mpox cases have been confirmed so far from 13 counties . The countries include : Busia 22 , Mombasa 12 cases ,Nakuru 10, Makueni 6, Bungoma 3, Kajiado 2, Taita Taveta 2, Kericho 2, Kilifi 2, Kiambu 1, Uasin Gishu 1, and Migori 1 case.

For the cases that have been reported, 49 patients have recovered, 10 are currently admitted and 7 are in home care . 1 has succumbed to death bringing it to fatality rate of 1.5 %

A total of 327 contacts have been listed from the confirmed cases, 274 have been followed up to 21 days.

The MVA-BN vaccine effectiveness is estimated to be 82% for 2 doses given four weeks apart, thus its not meant for the general population but it will prioritize high risk groups starting with the counties reporting confirmed cases.

The targeted group include;

High risk contact: For individuals with physical contact with Mpox confirmed cases.

High risk population: For individuals who engage in behaviours that risk cases of Mpox eg Truck drivers

Health workers: Those providing direct care to Mpox patients.

In addition the Ministry of Health urges the public and all Kenyans to use preventive measures by practicing hygiene, limit sexual partners by avoiding close contact with Mpox victims, report Mpox cases and use self isolation method to curb the disease