Kenya intensifies preparedness against Marburg virus 

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni, File photo.

Marburg

Kenya has intensified surveillance of the Marburg Virus Disease and response plans due to frequent travel and trade with Rwanda, where an outbreak was recently reported. 

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni said that although Kenya has not reported any cases of Marburg Virus Disease, they are taking proactive measures in strengthening Kenya’s disease prevention, preparedness and response framework.

The PS explained that the National Taskforce for Response to Mpox and Preparedness to Marburg Virus Disease yesterday held a critical meeting to review progress, enhance coordination efforts and strengthen Kenya’s preparedness against Mpox and the emerging threat of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), following recent outbreaks in the region.

Ms. Muthoni said they have put in place intervention measures including establishing Marburg Virus Disease treatment units and integrated health worker training programs to ensure Kenya is ready to respond swiftly and effectively should any cases arise.

“The Ministry of Health has developed an integrated training plan aimed at building capacity for healthcare workers to manage both Mpox and Marburg Virus Disease,” she said.  The PS said that this proactive approach ensures healthcare workers across the country are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to both infections.

“The taskforce meeting was attended by key stakeholders from across government, representatives from the Council of Governors, County Governments, health partners, officials from the Ministry of Health and other relevant Ministries, State Departments and Agencies,” said the PS.

Ms. Muthoni said that during the meeting, the taskforce reaffirmed its commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, underscoring the importance of a united response to safeguard public health.

 “The taskforce called on all Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Counties, and partners to further intensify their contributions toward eradicating Mpox in Kenya and to ensure nationwide readiness for any Marburg Virus Disease cases,” said the PS.

Ms. Muthoni assured that the Ministry of Health remains committed to Kenya’s constitutional goal of achieving the highest attainable standard of health for all.

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