The Ministry of Health has warned Kenyans of increased public health risks linked to the ongoing March–April–May long rains, urging the public to take precautionary measures to prevent disease outbreaks.
In an advisory, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki said heavy rainfall and flooding in several parts of the country could lead to contamination of water sources, increased mosquito breeding and disruption of sanitation systems. These conditions, officials said, heighten the risk of communicable diseases and other health hazards.
The ministry identified several potential health threats during the rainy season, including water-borne diseases such as cholera, typhoid and diarrhoeal illnesses, which can occur when people consume contaminated food or water. It also warned of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue, which may rise due to increased mosquito breeding sites.
Other risks highlighted in the advisory include respiratory infections caused by cold and damp conditions, as well as flood-related injuries such as drowning, trauma and snake bites. Poor sanitation and accumulation of waste in flooded areas may further increase the likelihood of disease outbreaks.
To reduce these risks, the ministry urged members of the public to ensure drinking water is safe by boiling, chlorinating or using approved water treatment methods. Residents were also advised to maintain proper hygiene, including regular handwashing and safe food handling practices.
Kenyans were further encouraged to take mosquito prevention measures such as sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, draining stagnant water around homes and using repellents where necessary.
The ministry cautioned the public against walking or driving through flooded areas, noting that floodwaters may be contaminated and pose safety risks.
“Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if you experience symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever or difficulty breathing,” Muthoni stated.
The ministry said it has strengthened disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and rapid response systems in collaboration with county governments and development partners to detect and respond quickly to potential outbreaks.
County health teams have also been directed to enhance monitoring of epidemic-prone diseases, increase community awareness and ensure health facilities are adequately prepared to handle possible health emergencies.
The ministry called on communities, local leaders and stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate with health authorities by reporting unusual disease outbreaks and adhering to public health guidelines.
Members of the public were also encouraged to contact their nearest health facility or local health authorities for assistance and to use emergency helplines 719, 0729 471414 or 0732 353535 for urgent support.
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