Stealthy increase: Mpox cases on the rise while awareness decreases

In the coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya, a growing concern over the Mpox virus has arisen. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms followed by a distinctive progressing rash, has been confirmed in at least 98 cases, making Mombasa the epicentre of the outbreak in the country [1].

A healthcare worker named Austine Owuori was diagnosed with Mpox on June 20, 2025. To keep his family safe during his recovery, Owuori chose to live alone in a small room [2]. His initial symptoms were mild, leading him to believe he had a minor illness. However, further testing revealed it was Mpox [3].

Mpox typically causes fever, painful lesions that turn into scabs, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, and sleep disruption. Unfortunately, many individuals are self-medicating for Mpox, which is a contributing factor to community spread [4].

Prof Julius Oyugi, Director of Research at the University of Nairobi's Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, explains that Mpox is a viral infection caused by the Mpox virus, first identified as endemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1970s. He notes that most cases recently detected in Mombasa involve adults in their late 40s [5].

Public health officials are raising concerns over rising Mpox infections in coastal Kenya, with increasing community transmission. Dr Mohammed Hanif, Mombasa County Director of Clinical Services, is encouraging residents to maintain high levels of personal hygiene and report any unusual rashes for prompt testing and treatment [6].

With community transmission now evident, effective contact tracing is necessary to determine where infected individuals are coming from, according to Prof Oyugi. Initially, Mpox cases were largely confined to truck drivers and commercial sex workers, but now, infections are within the general population [7].

Dr Patrick Oyaro, Chief of Party for the Stawisha Pwani Project, attributes the spread of Mpox in Mombasa to port-linked activities. One of the modes of transmission of Mpox is through sexual intercourse, according to Prof Oyugi [8].

At least 24 people are currently in isolation wards in Mombasa due to Mpox. There is no specific cure for Mpox. Symptoms are managed using antibiotics and painkillers [9].

Prevention focuses on avoiding contact with infected animals or people. Transmission occurs through close physical contact, including contact with rash, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials (like bedding). Vaccination is available: the Jynneos vaccine (also known as Imvanex or Imvamune), a live attenuated smallpox vaccine, has been approved to prevent Mpox. ACAM2000, a traditional smallpox vaccine, also offers some protection [10].

As the Mpox outbreak continues to grow in Mombasa, it is crucial for residents to prioritise personal hygiene, seek medical attention promptly for any unusual symptoms, and follow public health guidelines to prevent further spread.

In the realm of public health, concerns over rising Mpox infections in Mombasa’s business community are growing, as the virus has been confirmed in at least 98 cases.
The escalating Mpox outbreak has shone a light on the importance of skin-care and neurological-disorders research, as Prof Julius Oyugi, Director of Research at the University of Nairobi's Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, notes that most cases in Mombasa involve adults with various medical-conditions, such as respiratory-conditions and mental-health issues.
As a proactive measure, health-and-wellness advocates are encouraging residents of Mombasa to be vigilant and stay informed about the Mpox virus through trusted epaper resources, such as The Standard Digital newspaper.
In an effort to curb Mpox transmission, health officials are promoting vaccination, especially the Jynneos vaccine, which offers protection against both smallpox and Mpox.
In a world where politics and business often intertwine, it is crucial to remember the fundamental connection between these arenas and health, as ensuring a safe and healthy population underpins the prosperity of any nation.