Further to KTF’s earlier Statement dated 15th August 2024, Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) wishes to provide an update to address emerging concerns from stakeholders.
There have been exaggerated media reports that include Kenya amongst the countries with Mpox outbreak. The Ministry of Health has assured all stakeholders and potential visitors that there are no active Mpox cases currently in the country.
The situation in Kenya is well under control and KTF wishes to reassure all those planning to visit Kenya as follows:
- Robust Preparedness: The Ministry of Health, led by the Cabinet Secretary, has confirmed that comprehensive steps have been taken to ensure the nation’s readiness to manage any potential Mpox cases. During the Cabinet Secretary’s recent tour of key health facilities, she reaffirmed that the country is fully prepared to address any emergencies related to any cases that may arise.
- No Active Cases: Kenya has recorded only one previous confirmed case of Mpox, and this was linked to a traveler in transit. This case was swiftly managed, and no local transmission has been reported. The Ministry of Health emphasized that, as of now, there are no active Mpox cases in Kenya. One new suspected case was confirmed, through testing, to be negative.
- Enhanced Surveillance: To safeguard public health, the Ministry of Health has significantly heightened surveillance at all border entry points. Over 300,000 travelers have been screened with all suspected cases testing negative. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the measures in place to prevent the spread of Mpox into Kenya.
- Public Health Advisory: There has been added emphasis to the public to continue practicing preventive measures, such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and refraining from sharing personal items like towels and utensils. The Ministry of Health remains committed to providing regular updates and ensuring that any potential risks are promptly addressed.
Kenya remains a safe and welcoming destination for all visitors. The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) assures travelers that all necessary precautions are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. We encourage all tourism stakeholders to remain vigilant, follow the recommended safety protocols, and continue their operations with confidence.
The KTF-Safety Centre is closely monitoring the situation and will provide real-time updates as needed. We encourage all travelers to rely on official channels for the latest information to ensure a seamless and memorable visit to Kenya.
