By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health has officially confirmed a cholera outbreak affecting multiple regions across the country.
The outbreak, attributed to the bacteria Vibrio cholerae, has prompted urgent public health interventions following confirmed cases and fatalities.
According to a press statement dated, a total of 97 cholera cases, including six deaths, have been reported as of April 6, 2025. The cases have been confirmed in three counties Migori, Kisumu, and Nairobi.
- Migori County: 53 cases, 1 death. Affected areas include Suna East, Suna West, Kuria East, and Kuria West.
- Kisumu County: 32 cases, 4 deaths. Affected sub-counties are Nyando and Muhoroni.
- Nairobi County: 12 cases, 1 death. Sub-counties affected include Kasarani, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Roysambu, Kibra and Dagoretti South.
According to the Ministry of Health most patients have recovered, while two remain hospitalized.
In collaboration with County Governments, the Ministry is undertaking comprehensive measures including:
- Enhanced Surveillance: Nationwide active case search, contact tracing, and rapid response teams.
- Health Worker Training: Sensitization on case management, sanitation, hygiene, and communication.
- Risk Communication & Community Engagement: Distribution of IEC materials and media outreach.
- Water Hygiene & Sanitation Measures: Focus on clean water access, hygiene enforcement, and food safety.
- Case Management: Testing and treating suspected cases, with prophylaxis for contacts.
Recommended Public Health Actions:
- Personal Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water.
- Use alcohol-based sanitizer when necessary.
- Safe Water and Sanitation
- Drink only boiled or chlorinated water.
- Use latrines, avoid open defecation, and maintain clean facilities.
- Food Safety
- Wash and sanitize surfaces.
- Cook food thoroughly and store it properly.
Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, EGH, assured Kenyans that all counties are on high alert and that surveillance and community awareness efforts have been intensified.
“We remain committed to safeguarding the health of our communities and ensuring that every Kenyan is protected from emerging public health threats,” he said.
The Ministry urges the public to adhere to hygiene and sanitation guidelines to prevent further spread of the disease.