Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has confirmed three cases of Mpox (formerly Monkeypox) in Chekalini Ward, as reported by Western Kenya Times on Monday, sparking renewed calls for vigilance and community cooperation in preventing further spread.
Among the confirmed patients are a 52-year-old truck driver, his wife, and a woman who recently traveled from Nairobi via Narok. All three individuals, alongside three close contacts, bringing the total under observation to six, have been placed in mandatory isolation for 21 days as health officials continue tracing their travel histories and potential exposure.
In a county-wide response, the Kakamega County government has stepped up containment and awareness efforts. Governor Barasa urged residents to strictly adhere to public health guidelines.
Mpox is a viral illness known for causing skin lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Transmission occurs through close physical contact, including sexual contact, and can be especially dangerous to immunocompromised individuals.
The three Chekalini cases add to the growing national tally, which stood at 226 confirmed cases across 13 counties as of July 2025.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as contact tracing and public sensitization campaigns intensify across Lugari Sub-County.
