Kenya has recorded 1,309 confirmed mpox cases and 19 deaths across 40 counties, prompting the government to intensify disease surveillance and preparedness as the country also braces for anticipated El Niño-related health risks.
The figures, reported as of September 12, 2026, were reviewed during the Ministry of Health’s weekly management meeting chaired by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni.
The meeting also reviewed other ongoing public health threats, including measles and polio, with the PS calling for sustained surveillance and timely response to prevent further spread of the diseases.
Kenya has so far recorded 469 measles cases, including one death, while one case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 has been confirmed in Dadaab, Garissa County.
Muthoni called for stronger coordination among the ministry’s State Departments, Agencies, directorates and divisions to strengthen disease prevention, primary healthcare, health security and climate resilience.
She also directed stakeholders to step up preparedness for water- and vector-borne diseases that could increase during the anticipated El Niño rains, while maintaining heightened surveillance at points of entry for possible Ebola cases.
The PS emphasized the need for counties to strengthen their preparedness measures, including disease surveillance, immunization, community engagement and protection of healthcare workers who are likely to be at the frontline of responding to disease outbreaks.
The ministry’s preparations come as Kenya also gears up for the Kenya Public Health International Conference (KEPHIC) 2026, which is expected to bring together public health experts and other stakeholders to deliberate on emerging health challenges and strategies for strengthening the country’s health security.
The conference is scheduled to take place from October 27 to 29, 2026, with registration now open through the official KEPHIC website.
Muthoni called on State Corporations and Agencies, directorates and divisions to actively support preparations for the conference and contribute to discussions aimed at advancing disease prevention, primary healthcare, health security and climate resilience.
The government is also urging counties and communities to remain vigilant as the country prepares for the potential health impacts associated with heavy rains.
El Niño-related weather conditions can increase the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, particularly in areas affected by flooding, poor sanitation and disruption of essential health services.
The ministry has therefore stressed the importance of early preparedness, public awareness, vaccination and rapid reporting of suspected disease cases to health authorities.
With mpox, measles and polio continuing to require close monitoring, health authorities are expected to maintain surveillance and strengthen coordination between the national and county governments to ensure that suspected outbreaks are detected and contained early.
The government has also urged communities to cooperate with health workers and follow public health guidance as Kenya strengthens its preparedness for multiple health threats.
