Embu Confirms First Mpox Case as Health Authorities Launch Emergency Response
Embu County has confirmed its first Mpox case involving a 29-year-old woman from Runyenjes, prompting health authorities to activate contact tracing, surveillance and public awareness measures to contain the disease.
Health officials in Embu have intensified surveillance and contact tracing efforts after the county recorded its first confirmed Mpox case. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Embu County GoVernment basically says they’ve confirmed the first Mpox case there, and you know how these lab results work, after tests, a 29-year-old woman from Runyenjes Constituency was found to be infected with the viral disease.
County Executive Committee Member for Health Jamal Runyenje mentioned, the confirmation came in on May 30, so health teams then moved fast to kick off emergency steps meant to slow down any more spread.
In a Sunday statement, Runyenje said the county has started investigations , contact tracing , active case finding , stronger surveillance, infection prevention, and community sensitisation drives, all done together with the Ministry of Health.
“I wish to officially inform you that the Department of Health has confirmed the first case of Mpox in Embu County following laboratory results received on 30th May 2026,” Runyenje said.
The patient, in this case, is reported to be from Kagaari North Ward in Runyenjes Sub-County. Health workers have since pushed up efforts to find and follow up with people who may have had close contact with her.
Residents were told to stay calm but also remain observant for symptoms, like fever, skin rashes, strange lesions, swollen lymph nodes, body pains , and fatigue.
“We also encourage residents to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid close contact with suspected cases and refrain from sharing personal items,” Runyenje said.
He also asked the public to cooperate with health officers during surveillance and contact tracing across the county.
Meanwhile the county health department placed all facilities on high alert, and tightened readiness so they can quickly spot, isolate and treat any suspected cases.
“The County Government of Embu remains fully committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of our people,” he added.
Mpox itself is a viral illness that spreads through close contact with an infected person, contaminated materials, respiratory secretions, or even infected animals. People commonly report fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and skin rashes. (
Authorities also say if anyone develops symptoms that match Mpox, they should seek medical help right away, as efforts continue to stop the outbreak from growing.
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