🇰🇪 Kenya’s Mpox Outbreak: 19 Deaths Reported as Cases Reach 1,298

Kenya is intensifying its response to a worsening mpox outbreak, with health authorities reporting 1,298 confirmed cases and 19 deaths as of September 6, 2026. The infections have now been recorded in 40 of Kenya’s 47 counties. Mombasa has the highest number of cases Mombasa is the hardest-hit county, with 452 confirmed cases, followed by: Nairobi — 320 cases Busia — 115 Makueni — 85 Kiambu — 44 Kilifi — 38 Nakuru — 31 Kenyan health authorities have identified seven counties as particularly high-risk, largely because they sit along major transport corridors or near international border crossings. Why authorities are concerned The outbreak is no longer confined to a small number of locations. Its spread across 40 counties has raised concerns about continued community transmission and the possibility of further infections through travel and contact networks. Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni has urged Kenyans to strengthen hygiene practices, remain vigilant, support vaccination efforts and cooperate with disease-surveillance measures. Authorities are also increasing screening at border points. Regional concern The development comes as Kenya manages several other public-health threats, including measles, polio and a regional Ebola-related emergency, placing additional pressure on the country's disease-surveillance and healthcare systems. Bottom line: Kenya's 1,298 confirmed cases and 19 deaths make the current mpox outbreak a significant national public-health concern. Officials are particularly focused on the seven high-risk counties and on preventing further transmission through transport corridors and border crossings. Sources: Kenya News Agency, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Kenya Ministry of Health reporting and Daily Nation.