The Ministry of Health has issued an advisory to members of the public on how to effectively safeguard themselves against cholera and diarrheal diseases amid the ongoing rains wreaking havoc across the country.
In a statement, the health ministry stated that the ongoing heavy rains have led to a confirmed case of cholera in Tana River County and suspected diarrheal cases in Marsabit County.
“The State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards wishes to provide an update on the current situation of waterborne diseases, particularly the cholera outbreak in the country. Despite our successful control efforts, the ongoing heavy rains and flooding have led to a confirmed case of cholera reported on 26th April 2024 in Tana River County. This single case is significant as it amounts to an outbreak. There are additional reports of suspected diarrheal cases in Marsabit county,” the statement reads in parts.
“Several risk factors have contributed to the spread of this deadly disease. The main one is the destruction of sanitation facilities during these long rains, resulting in the collapse of latrines and the filling of latrines with flood water, which mixes water sources with fecal matter.”
The ministry subsequently emphasized that Kenyans should follow preventive measures such as proper handwashing with soap and clean running water to protect themselves from the germs that cause waterborne diseases such as cholera, and typhoid among other diarrheal diseases.
The ministry also advised citizens to use safe treated or boiled water to prevent the direct and indirect consumption of contaminated water that may cause diseases.
Other measures include; practising food safety by consuming well-cooked foods and thoroughly washing meat, fruits, vegetables and household cutlery before using.
Similarly, Kenyans have been advised to practice safe faecal disposal by avoiding open defecation and reporting dilapidated latrines and sewer lines to the relevant authorities. The ministry has also asked Kenyans to intensify community surveillance and report suspected contamination of water with faecal matter.
Additionally, citizens have been asked to practice safe waste management through appropriate and safe waste and garbage disposal during floods.
The health ministry has also advised citizens to ensure segregated and proper disposal of garbage and household waste to protect themselves from diseases.
In addition, congestion in rescue camps with limited sanitation facilities inadequate water sanitation and hygiene facilities and the consumption of untreated water are likely to worsen the situation,” the statement added.
The government however stated that a multi-agencyteam is
