By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health has reported a surge in Kala-azar infections in Wajir County, with 16 new cases confirmed in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 33.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni, confirmed the increase, noting that a specialized team from the health ministry has been deployed to the affected areas to assist the county government in managing the outbreak.
Kala-azar, a vector-borne disease, first emerged in Wajir County in September 2024 and authorities have been working tirelessly to control its spread.
PS Muthoni reassured the public that the ministry is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to providing the necessary support to mitigate further loss of life.
“We have enhanced surveillance,we were able to send three mobile labs to wajir county and one in Marsabit county. Our health staffs are in the ground and they are coordinating with the county government and the public health staff,” stated PS Muthoni.
Governor Ahmed Abdulahi of Wajir expressed optimism, reporting that the county has seen a positive trend in the fight against the disease.
“We have now stabilized in a big way, we are now discharging more patients than we are admitting.We are working with the national government and other players in health sector.We have brought it under control and we are doing our best to ensure no more lives lost,” stated Wajir Governor.
The Ministry of Health continues to encourage residents to seek prompt medical attention if they exhibit symptoms of Kala-azar, which includes fever, weight loss, and swelling of the spleen and liver.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with ongoing health campaigns to curb the spread of the disease.