Sun Sep 15 03:10:34 UTC 2024: ## Kenya Allocates Sh6.7 Billion to Combat Mpox Outbreak

**Nairobi, Kenya** – The Kenyan government has allocated over Sh6.7 billion towards managing the Mpox outbreak, as the country grapples with five confirmed cases. The Ministry of Health has outlined a comprehensive plan, divided into three key areas: local containment, regional control, and national control.

The largest portion of the budget, Sh1.7 billion, will be dedicated to local containment efforts, including establishing temporary isolation spaces, procuring treatment commodities, and training community health workers. The plan also outlines allocations for sensitizing school communities and procuring personal protective equipment.

The regional control strategy, targeting less than five counties, will receive over Sh2.3 billion, with a focus on active case search, contact tracing, and case management. This budget will also include funds for risk communication and community engagement, as well as procuring infection prevention and control logistics.

Finally, the national control strategy, designed for outbreaks affecting more than five counties, will receive over Sh2.6 billion. This includes allocations for risk communication and community engagement, infection prevention and control interventions, and building the capacity of healthcare workers to manage the outbreak.

The National Public Health and Laboratory has received and sampled 149 cases, with six awaiting confirmation. Authorities have screened over 799,000 travelers at 26 ports of entry across the country.

The plan emphasizes the importance of risk communication and community engagement to mitigate risks and ensure the effective management of the outbreak. The Ministry of Health is committed to providing timely updates and information to the public as the situation evolves.

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