WHO donates over 15 million tablets and Mpox kits to combat tropical diseases
Health & Science
By
David Njaaga
| Oct 14, 2024
WHO donates tablets and Mpox kits aimed at fighting tropical diseases in Kenya.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has donated 15,215,000 tablets for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), valued at USD 1.7 million.
The donation also includes 28 Mpox diagnostic kits, targeting over 15 million people across 15 counties.
Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO Country Representative in Kenya, noted that the NTD medicines aim to combat conditions such as Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases.
He explained the importance of these donations in supporting Kenya's efforts to eliminate these diseases by 2030.
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“Kenya has made significant strides, launching its third-generation NTD Master Plan (2023-2027) to eliminate four NTDs by 2027,” said Diallo.
He added that the country is on track to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis within the same timeframe.
The WHO’s donation for Mpox includes resources to assist Kenya's response to the outbreak officially declared on July 31.
To date, Kenya has screened over 1.3 million travellers and confirmed 13 cases across 10 counties.
The Mpox diagnostic kits are designed to test 2,688 suspected Mpox samples, enhancing Kenya's capacity for rapid diagnosis and timely interventions.
The Mpox donation is valued at USD 13,000, and USAID has allocated USD 500,000 to strengthen the Ministry of Health's response to the outbreak.
Diallo reaffirmed WHO's commitment to supporting Kenya in managing both NTDs and emerging infectious diseases, ensuring that health outcomes improve for all.