Public Health PS Mary Muthoni Assures Kenyans as Probe into Mombasa Illness Continues
Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni has reassured Kenyans that investigations into a mysterious illness in Mombasa—linked to four deaths—are actively ongoing.
Speaking during a radio interview on Wednesday, Muthoni confirmed that surveillance and rapid response teams have been deployed to the affected area and are currently analysing samples collected from the victims.
“Laboratory testing is underway to establish the exact cause of the illness,” she said, urging Kenyans to remain calm as the Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide timely updates.
The four deaths, involving adults aged between 55 and 91 years, were reported between July 9 and 14 in Matangini village, Migadini. The bodies were found in their homes.
The Mombasa County Department of Health has since stated that preliminary investigations have not found any indication of a contagious disease.
On the broader national health landscape, Muthoni also addressed growing public concerns about the Mpox virus. She affirmed that it remains a key focus for the Ministry, with surveillance heightened at all ports of entry.
“We have put strong rapid response systems in place to manage any suspected cases and prevent the spread of Mpox,” she said.
The PS also used the platform to highlight recent achievements in public health, particularly in vaccination efforts.
She reported that the national Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) campaign reached over 16.1 million children, achieving 84% coverage. Additionally, more than 5.18 million children were vaccinated against Measles-Rubella, marking 81% of the national target.
Providing an update on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), Muthoni said the government is making significant strides through the Social Health Authority (SHA), which is spearheading key reforms to improve access and equity in healthcare delivery.
She noted that the digitisation of services, including the verification of UHC personnel across the country, is being scaled up to enhance transparency, efficiency, and effective service delivery at the community level.
