MPOX vaccine rollout set for December as Kenya ramps up surveillance

Kenya is set to begin MPOX vaccinations by December as the country strengthens its defences against the virus, which has impacted several African nations.

The Ministry of Health’s Department for Public Health and Professional Standards has confirmed that vaccine doses are expected to arrive soon, with efforts underway to secure supplies through both the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and independent procurement.

Africa CDC has already rolled out vaccinations in three African countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

Due to the high demand and cost of the MPOX vaccine, only 5.6 million doses have been made available so far.

The Africa CDC is collaborating with WHO, GAVI, and UNICEF to expand vaccine access across the continent.

Kenya’s proactive approach has earned praise, with Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni acknowledged for coordinating a multi-sectoral team to establish clear strategies against the virus.

This weekend, PS Muthoni chaired a meeting to review current efforts and introduce additional measures.

PS Muthoni noted that Kenya has strengthened its border surveillance, screening approximately 1.5 million travellers by Friday to prevent MPOX spread.

Dr. Matendechero, Deputy Director-General of Public Health, highlighted Kenya’s exemplary progress in managing MPOX, serving as a model for other countries.

Africa CDC reports that around 9,000 cases out of 45,000 suspected cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing.