Kenya had recorded 1,298 confirmed mpox cases and 19 deaths across 40 of its 47 counties as of September 6, 2026, according to the Ministry of Health. The ministry has flagged seven counties along transport corridors and border points as the highest risk: Mombasa, Nairobi, Busia, Makueni, Kiambu, Kilifi and Nakuru. It is urging the public to keep up hygiene and prevention measures.
The figures were released on September 7 by Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni. As of September 29, the latest national count 254.ke could find is still that September 6 tally.
How many mpox cases are there in Kenya?
| Item | Figure (as of Sept 6, 2026) |
|---|---|
| Confirmed cases | 1,298 |
| Deaths | 19 |
| Counties affected | 40 of 47 |
| Mombasa | 452 cases |
| Nairobi | 320 cases |
| Busia | 115 cases |
Mombasa, Nairobi and Busia together account for 887 of the 1,298 confirmed cases, roughly two in three. Case counts for the other four flagged counties were not given in the reports reviewed. Wikipedia’s running tally of the wider epidemic listed Kenya at 1,087 confirmed cases and 19 deaths as of late March 2026, which would mean about 211 more cases and no additional deaths since then, though that comparison rests on a secondary source and different reporting dates.
Which counties are at highest risk?
The ministry named seven counties because of their location on major transport routes and near border crossings, where people move constantly:
- Mombasa, the worst-hit county, and neighbouring Kilifi on the Coast.
- Nairobi and Kiambu in the capital region.
- Busia on the Uganda border.
- Makueni and Nakuru, both on major highway corridors.
The ministry said community transmission is under way and called for sustained surveillance, vaccination, public awareness and enhanced screening at border points. Muthoni told Kenyans to “remain vigilant and observe hygiene and prevention measures,” according to KBC and Kenyans.co.ke. She was also quoted as saying it is easier to find mpox patients in hospital isolation wards than patients with many other diseases.
What are the symptoms of mpox?
According to the World Health Organization, common symptoms include a rash, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads across the body, developing into fluid-filled blisters that can be itchy or painful. Symptoms usually appear within a week of exposure, though the incubation period can run from 1 to 21 days.
Most people recover within two to four weeks. Illness can last longer in people with weakened immune systems.
How does mpox spread?
The virus spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected person, including skin-to-skin contact, kissing and face-to-face interaction. Contaminated items such as bedding, towels and clothing can also carry it, as can animal bites. The WHO says people should contact a health worker promptly if they suspect exposure, since testing supports early diagnosis and limits onward spread.
What should you do if you think you have mpox?
- Call or visit a health facility and describe your symptoms before you go, so staff can prepare.
- Stay home, cover any lesions and avoid close contact until you have been assessed.
- Do not share towels, clothing or bedding, and wash hands often.
- Isolate until all sores have healed and new skin has formed, the WHO advises.
Is there a mpox vaccine in Kenya?
The Ministry of Health lists vaccination among its containment measures alongside surveillance and public awareness. The WHO says vaccines are available and recommended for high-risk groups such as health workers, household contacts and people with multiple sexual partners. The reports reviewed by 254.ke gave no figures on how many Kenyans have been vaccinated or which groups are currently eligible; check with your county health office for local availability.
Frequently asked questions
How many people have died of mpox in Kenya?
The Ministry of Health reported 19 deaths among 1,298 confirmed cases as of September 6, 2026.
How many counties have mpox cases?
Forty of Kenya’s 47 counties have reported cases, per the ministry’s September 7 update.
Which county has the most mpox cases?
Mombasa leads with 452 confirmed cases, followed by Nairobi with 320 and Busia with 115.
Can mpox be treated?
Most patients recover within two to four weeks, according to the WHO. Seek medical advice early if you develop a rash or fever after contact with a suspected case.
The ministry has also flagged 18 counties as high-risk for waterborne disease as El Niño rains approach. See our related coverage: Nairobi waives building repair permits ahead of El Niño and how the fake SHA registration scam works. For medical guidance, see the WHO mpox fact sheet.
By the 254.ke Newsroom. Sources: Ministry of Health statement of September 7, 2026, as reported by KBC, Kenyans.co.ke and K24 Digital; World Health Organization. Updated September 29, 2026.
