Govt calls for vigilance amid growing cholera crisis in Kenya

The government has urged the public to exercise heightened vigilance following a confirmed cholera outbreak that has claimed six lives and infected 97 people across several regions in Kenya. 

A spot check by The Standard has revealed alarming levels of negligence, with some eateries operating dangerously close to burst sewage lines—posing a serious public health risk. 

The Ministry of Health identified Migori, Kisumu, and Nairobi counties as among the hardest hit by the deadly waterborne disease, sparking growing concern nationwide.

“In Kisumu County, 32 cases and four deaths have been reported with affected sub-counties including Nyando and Muhoroni. In Migori County, 53 cases and one death have been reported affecting Suna East, Suna West, Kuria East, and Kuria West. Most patients have recovered, with two remaining hospitalised. In Nairobi County, 12 cases and one death have been reported affecting the following sub-counties; Kasarani, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Roysambu, Kibra, and Dagoretti South,” said the statement.

In response, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with local County Governments, has launched rapid response teams to conduct active searches and contact tracing aimed at containing the disease and preventing further loss of life:

The Ministry of Health has confirmed a cholera outbreak in Kisumu, Migori, and Nairobi counties, with six deaths reported in the last 48 hours.

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Health officials are now urging Kenyans to take immediate precautions to prevent the further spread of the highly contagious and potentially fatal disease.

Despite government directives urging vigilance and hygiene, a spot check by The Standard revealed that food vendors in several areas continue to operate near open sewage lines and in unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of infection.

Migori County has emerged as the epicentre of the outbreak, with 53 reported cases and one death. Kisumu County has confirmed 32 cases, with four fatalities, while Nairobi has recorded 12 infections and one death. All three counties have been placed on high alert.

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, speaking during a public health sensitization drive in Kirinyaga County, expressed concern that many Kenyans were ignoring simple but effective preventive measures.

“We are witnessing a worrying trend where people have abandoned basic hygiene practices like boiling drinking water and regular handwashing,” said PS Muthoni. “Cholera is preventable, yet it continues to kill because of our laxity. Let us remain vigilant, especially now that the disease is spreading to densely populated areas like Nairobi,” she added.

Cholera, a waterborne disease caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with fecal matter, can cause severe dehydration and death within hours if untreated. The Ministry of Health is urging the public to maintain high standards of hygiene, avoid consuming food from unhygienic sources, and seek immediate treatment if symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps occur.

In Nairobi, the county government has activated rapid response teams and instructed hospitals to implement emergency cholera control measures. Community health promoters have been dispatched to distribute water purification tablets and educate residents on sanitation practices in vulnerable neighborhoods.

In Migori, where the outbreak is most severe, local health officials have been urged to intensify public awareness campaigns, especially in informal settlements where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

“If treated early, cholera is not a death sentence. But if ignored, it can take lives in a matter of hours. Please, if you notice symptoms, rush to the nearest health facility,” PS Muthoni stated.

As health authorities race to contain the outbreak, Kenyans are reminded that prevention remains the most powerful weapon: safe drinking water, clean food, and good personal hygiene.

Healthcare professionals are undergoing specialised training in case management, surveillance, water sanitation, hygiene practices, and effective communication strategies to enhance their response efforts.

The Ministry is working closely with community health promoters, administrative officers, and media channels to spread crucial information. Informational materials, including videos, are being distributed to raise awareness about cholera prevention.

The Ministry is also promoting household water treatment and enforcing proper hygiene practices, ensuring food safety, particularly after investigations revealed that untreated water consumption is a significant risk factor.

The Ministry is actively testing suspected cases, providing treatment to confirmed patients, and offering prophylactic measures to those who may have come into close contact with infected individuals.

To help prevent the further spread of cholera, the Ministry of Health urges all Kenyans to follow these essential guidelines: Personal hygiene, safe water, and sanitation

“Only drink clean water that has been boiled or chlorinated. Avoid untreated water from rivers or lakes. Store water in clean, covered containers and properly dispose of waste to avoid contamination. Maintain clean, functional latrines and avoid open defecation,” said PS Muthoni.

Kenyans are further urged to wash their hands and sanitize surfaces before preparing food.  consumption.

At the first signs of diarrhoea, immediately begin taking Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and seek medical care at the nearest health facility.

Avoid self-medication and the use of traditional remedies, as they may worsen the situation.

The Ministry of Health has emphasised the need for immediate medical care for anyone suspected of being infected with cholera, as the disease can be fatal if left untreated.