Homa Bay County confirms five Mpox cases, activates isolation and quarantine measures

Homa Bay County has confirmed five cases of Mpox, prompting the Department of Health to issue a public health alert and intensify surveillance as travel into and out of the county increases during the festive season.

County Executive Committee Member for Health, Grace Osewe, said the county has heightened preparedness to prevent further spread of the disease, noting that increased movement and social interactions pose an added risk. “We have confirmed five Mpox cases in Homa Bay County. As we enter the festive period, we are urging residents to remain vigilant and to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms associated with Mpox,” Osewe said.

According to the Department of Health, two patients are currently admitted at the Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital, where they are receiving specialized care, while the other confirmed cases are under close medical observation. Health officials indicated that all the patients are being monitored by trained personnel and appropriate infection prevention and control measures have been put in place.

Osewe said the county government has activated a quarantine centre and fully operationalized an isolation facility to manage suspected and confirmed cases. “We have put all our health facilities and personnel on high alert. Any suspected case will be isolated immediately, and contact tracing will be carried out to contain potential transmission,” she said.

She added that healthcare workers across the county have been sensitized on case detection, reporting, and management, in line with national public health guidelines. “Our frontline health workers are prepared to respond promptly. We are also working closely with national health authorities to strengthen surveillance and response,” Osewe said.

Mpox is a viral disease that can spread through close physical contact, including contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash. Health officials emphasized that early detection and treatment significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and community transmission.

The county has urged residents to avoid close contact with anyone showing Mpox-like symptoms, practice good hygiene, and report suspected cases promptly to the nearest health facility. “Early reporting helps us protect families, communities, and the county at large,” Osewe said.

Homa Bay County said it will continue to update the public as the situation evolves, while maintaining enhanced surveillance, community sensitization, and strict infection prevention measures to safeguard public health during the festive season and beyond.