Cholera cases have surged in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Migori counties, with the total number of reported cases rising to 97, up from 69. Six fatalities have been recorded so far. As the situation evolves, the Ministry of Health (MoH), in collaboration with county governments, is ramping up efforts to manage and contain the outbreak.

Kisumu County has been heavily impacted by the cholera outbreak, with 32 confirmed cases and four reported deaths. The most affected sub-counties include Nyando and Muhoroni, where spreading the disease has raised concerns. Local health authorities are working tirelessly to limit further transmission and provide medical care to the affected individuals. The situation in Kisumu remains closely monitored as health officials focus on containment measures.

Migori County is also facing significant challenges, with 53 cases of cholera and one reported death. Suna East, Suna West, and Kuria West are the hardest-hit sub-counties. Fortunately, most of the patients have recovered, but the Ministry of Health and local authorities continue to work together to curb the spread of the disease. Awareness campaigns and preventive measures are being rolled out to protect communities in these regions.

Nairobi, the capital city, has not been spared by the outbreak, with 12 reported cases and one fatality. The affected areas in Nairobi include Kasaran, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Roysambu, Kibra, and Dagoretti South. Health officials are working on strengthening response measures in these neighbourhoods, providing resources to healthcare facilities, and encouraging the public to adopt good hygiene practices to prevent further spread.

MoH’’s response to the outbreak

The Ministry of Health has responded proactively to the cholera outbreak across the affected counties. Efforts include enhanced surveillance, swift identification of new cases, and the immediate deployment of response teams at the national and county levels. These measures aim to limit the spread of cholera and ensure effective containment.

One of the core components of the response strategy is the active search for cases and meticulous contact tracing. By identifying new cases early and isolating contacts, health officials hope to prevent further outbreaks. Response teams have been deployed rapidly to the affected regions to offer support and expertise on managing the situation.

Training healthcare workers and strengthening capacity

To ensure the effectiveness of the response efforts, the Ministry of Health has prioritised the training and sensitisation of healthcare workers. These training sessions focus on disease surveillance, clinical case management, water and sanitation practices, and risk communication. By strengthening the capacity of healthcare professionals, the Ministry aims to ensure that they are well-equipped to handle the outbreak and provide essential care to those affected.

Public engagement and risk communication

In addition to efforts at the healthcare level, the Ministry of Health has emphasised the importance of engaging the public through risk communication and community outreach. Community health promoters, media outlets, and educational materials are being used to inform the public about cholera prevention. Accurate information is being disseminated to encourage good hygiene practices and ensure the public understands the importance of safe water consumption.

Water, hygiene, and sanitation measures

Investigations have revealed that a significant number of cholera cases have been linked to the consumption of untreated water. As a result, the Ministry of Health has implemented urgent water hygiene and sanitation measures to address this issue. These measures include:

• Household Water Treatment: Encouraging households to treat their water by boiling or chlorinating it before use.
• Stricter Hygiene Enforcement: Promoting handwashing with soap and clean water, particularly after using the toilet, handling food, or caring for sick individuals.
• Food Safety Campaigns: Promoting safe food storage and preparation to prevent contamination.

Local authorities are also ensuring that public spaces are equipped with handwashing stations stocked with soap and clean water or hand sanitisers containing at least 60% alcohol.

Preventive measures for the public

To protect themselves and prevent the spread of cholera, the Ministry of Health has issued the following guidelines for the public:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, especially after using the toilet, before preparing food, and after caring for someone who is ill.
• Safe Water Practices: Only drink boiled or chlorinated water. Avoid untreated water from rivers or lakes, and store water in clean, covered containers.
• Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of waste properly to prevent water contamination and avoid open defecation. Ensure latrines are clean and functional.
• Food Safety: Always wash hands before preparing food and sanitise surfaces and utensils to avoid contamination.

Understanding cholera

Cholera is a highly infectious waterborne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is contracted when individuals consume food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms include the sudden onset of severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and dehydration. Symptoms can appear within two hours to five days after infection.

Without prompt treatment, cholera can lead to severe dehydration and potentially death. Individuals who suspect they are infected with cholera must seek medical attention immediately.

Looking forward: Ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with local authorities and communities, remains committed to managing and containing the cholera outbreak. Surveillance efforts continue, and the focus remains on ensuring that the public adopts preventive measures to reduce the spread of the disease. By working together, it is hoped that the outbreak will be controlled and further fatalities can be prevented.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Ministry of Health urges the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and adhere to recommended guidelines to protect themselves and their communities from cholera.

(Nation)