KIRINYAGA, Kenya – The cholera outbreak in Kenya continues to escalate, with over 70 people now affected and more than five lives lost across the country.
In response, the government is urging citizens to be vigilant and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings as part of ongoing efforts to combat the waterborne disease.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, speaking from Kirinyaga, emphasized the vital importance of basic hygiene practices that have been neglected in recent times.
These simple steps, such as boiling drinking water and frequent handwashing, are essential in preventing the spread of cholera.
Muthoni noted that the lack of adherence to these practices, particularly during the rainy season when stagnant water is common, has contributed significantly to the rise in cholera cases.
As part of its response, the government has deployed community health promoters (CHPs) to distribute water purification tablets in the most affected areas.
While the distribution of these tablets is a temporary measure, the PS highlighted the importance of long-term cleanliness and hygiene efforts, calling on Kenyans to be more mindful of their environment and to ensure regular cleaning of public spaces and homes.
The cholera outbreak has now been confirmed across several counties, including Migori, Kisumu, and Nairobi, with the latter seeing cases in areas such as Kasarani, Kibra, and Dagoretti South.
The situation remains a major public health concern, with the government activating emergency response protocols to curb its spread.
In addition to distributing oral rehydration salts and establishing isolation units for affected individuals, the government is increasing public awareness through various campaigns.
These initiatives include a renewed focus on the ‘Epuka Uchafu’ campaign, which encourages regular cleaning exercises and environmental hygiene, particularly during the rainy season when cholera transmission risks are heightened.
Cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, spreads through contaminated food or water, and symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and dehydration often appear rapidly.
The government continues to issue advisories urging Kenyans to treat drinking water, wash hands regularly with soap and water, and seek immediate medical care if symptoms emerge.
