February 16, 2025
Kenya's Health Ministry Issues New Directives To Curb Mpox In Schools

Kenya’s Health Ministry Issues New Directives To Curb Mpox In Schools

Schools have been asked to exercise additional caution as Mpox instances continue to climb across the country.

To guarantee kids’ health and well-being in the face of the spike in cases, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki has issued six suggestions to schools and asked principals to follow them.

To prevent and manage the spread of Mpox in schools, the ministry advises students and staff to wash their hands often with soap and water.

They’ve also been urged to apply alcohol-based sanitizers, particularly after touching surfaces or participating in physical activities.

Schools will be obliged to clean and disinfect classrooms, staff rooms, bathrooms, and common areas.

The Ministry has urged that all school personnel, including teachers, be trained to recognize Mpox signs and take necessary action if they detect a case.

Mpox symptoms can include fever, rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and exhaustion.

Anyone suspected of having any of the disease’s symptoms should be referred to a healthcare facility for testing and not return to school until cleared by a doctor.

Although physical separation is no longer required, the ministry recommends schools keep classrooms well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding in any area.

Additionally, huge gatherings and events such as sports must follow health and safety regulations.

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“We strongly advise the general public to follow these public health measures and seek medical attention in any of the nearest health facilities if experiencing M-pox-like symptoms,” Muthoni emphasised in the statement.

The instances have been reported in 12 counties, including 10 in Nakuru and eight in Mombasa, with Nairobi, Kajiado, Bungoma, Taita Taveta, and Kericho each reporting two cases.

Busia, Makueni, Kilifi, Kiambu, and Uasin Gishu have one instance each.

To speed up the response to the outbreak in afflicted areas, the Ministry, in partnership with county governments and partners, has increased surveillance.

Kenya’s Health Ministry Issues New Directives To Curb Mpox In Schools