Kenya's national burden of monkeypox: a public health emergency, a review

Infection with Orthopoxvirus Mpox is steadily becoming a public health menace in Kenya. This review seeks to provide insight into the disease's epidemiology, clinical-attendance, preventive mechanisms, surveillance efforts, and the associated challenges within the health system in the country. Initial outbreaks were recorded in July 2024 among long-haul drivers in Taita Taveta County; the occupational risks and border-crossing activities posed significant threats. Of particular note is the fact that approximately 77% of the 13 confirmed cases (n = 10) occurred within the subset of international transporters, which accounts for a seemingly astounding 10% prevalence among this population. As of October 2024, Mpox cases have been reported in five counties, with a total of 47 confirmed cases and 3 deaths. Age distribution shows that 62% of cases occurred in individuals aged 25-45 years, with a male predominance of 81%. There is a great need for preventive hygiene education, as well as vaccination; however, the public's access to vaccines and knowledge about them remains scarce. The surveillance system as well as case management has insufficient funding, inadequate diagnostic, and trained health personnel resources strangle these systems. More robust healthcare infrastructure, such as isolation facilities and laboratory capacity, as well as fostering regional collaborations with WHO, requires advocacy along with adopting a One Health strategy encompassing human, animal, and environmental health.