The Ministry of Health has reported an outbreak of chickenpox in Mombasa and Nairobi Counties.
However, Director of Medical Services Jackson Kioko has urged residents to remain calm, saying there is no need for alarm, as infected persons can recover from the disease without seeking medical treatment.
“It happens a lot during holidays and we always pick up the cases through enhanced awareness among the public,” said Dr Kioko.
According to the ministry, about 500 cases were reported in Mombasa in January, with the number rising to 1,200 in September.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to limit contact with infected persons, as well as maintain proper hygiene standards.
“The burden of the disease is usually very low and so is the mortality, that is why we have not had cases of people dying. There is nothing to worry about,” said Dr Kioko, as quoted by The Nation.