Following the recently reported outbreak of the Marburg in neighbouring Tanzania, the Ministry of Health through the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Ms Mary Muthoni has assured Kenyans that the virus has not crossed over into Kenya.
Speaking at Cottolengo home for the aged in Murang’a, the PS stated that the government has put in place the necessary surveillance measures to curb the spread of Marburg virus into the country.
The PS noted that although no case has been reported in Kenya it is important for Kenyans to adhere to health guidelines given by MOH to mitigate the spread noting that the government is prepared through increased surveillance and screening at the ports of entry.
“We have enhanced our surveillance now that there is the mention of the Marburg virus which is a serious disease,” she stated.
“We have been having M-Pox disease since last year and we have managed it by doing screening at the ports of entry where every traveler coming into the county is screened,” Muthoni added.
She called for calm and assured Kenyans that no data shows there is Marburg in the country so far.
“MOH is prepared and is developing messaging to get to the people on what they need to do,” she stated.
The PS called upon Kenyans to maintain high levels of hygiene, wash hands with water and soap and cautioned them against sharing personal items like clothes.
“I urge Kenyans to practice high levels of hygiene wherever you are,” she said.
Meanwhile the PS celebrated the role of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in promoting health at the community level saying that their role is critical in the health sector.
“I am proud of the Community Health Promoters for their role at the bottom of the pyramid where they are taking charge of households,” she said.
The PS called upon Kenyans to continue registering with the Social Health Authority so that they can enjoy the available accessible, affordable and quality healthcare.
By Purity Mugo