The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has issued a public advisory urging Kenyans to refrain from handling or consuming bushmeat in light of recent Mpox cases reported in the country. This cautionary notice comes as a preventive measure following the confirmation of isolated Mpox cases, signaling the potential for a broader outbreak if necessary precautions are not observed.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), in collaboration with the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI), is closely monitoring the situation under the One Health approach, working alongside the Directorate of Veterinary Service and the Ministry of Health. These efforts are part of the Zoonotic Technical Working Group’s mandate to manage the health risks posed by zoonotic diseases—those that are transmissible between animals and humans.
Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease that poses significant public health risks. The disease can spread through direct contact with infected animals or humans, as well as through contaminated food, water, or environments. The Ministry emphasized that the risks associated with handling or consuming bushmeat are particularly high, not only for Mpox but for a range of other zoonotic diseases, including Ebola, Rabies, and Avian Flu.
Rebecca Miano, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, highlighted the urgency of the advisory, citing the unpredictable nature of disease emergence, particularly in the context of extreme climate change. She called on all Kenyans to heed expert advice and avoid any interaction with bushmeat, stressing that this is critical to prevent potential health crises.
The Ministry is also intensifying its efforts to educate communities living near wildlife habitats about the dangers of bushmeat poaching and consumption. Under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act No. 47 of 2013, bushmeat poaching and hunting are criminal offenses punishable by law.
The public is encouraged to follow guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health on Mpox and report any suspected cases to the relevant authorities immediately. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health through continued vigilance and community sensitization efforts.
