Health

According to the LIGHT Consortium, TB remains a significant public health challenge in Kenya, disproportionately affecting men. The consortium reports that 55% of TB cases occur in men, compared to 33% in women and 12% in children.

Trump's administration withdrew from the WHO upon taking office in January, saying the global health agency had mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises.

The infection often causes fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes. Last month, the Africa CDC announced that the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa remains classified as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security.

U.S. District Judge Zahid Quraishi in Trenton, New Jersey, ordered the drugmaker's Janssen unit to pay $360 million for violating the federal False Claims Act.

To mark TB Awareness Week, the facility is conducting free TB testing, aiming to reach those who might otherwise go undiagnosed.

PS Kimtai accused private healthcare providers of attempting to blackmail both the government and the public by withholding services.

NDIC stated that the payments have played a crucial role in ensuring the continuity of healthcare services and alleviating financial pressures on facilities.

The funding aims to enhance healthcare infrastructure, improve medical equipment, and support the government’s push for Universal Health Coverage.

Health officials believe contaminated water and poor sanitation are key contributors to the crisis.

A breakdown of the disbursement shows that faith-based organizations received Sh3.5 billion, public hospitals were allocated Sh7.2 billion, and private healthcare providers received Sh11.4 billion.

It has been estimated that up to 50% of people with diabetes will develop damage to their peripheral nerves during their lifetime, and up to 50% will experience pain because of that nerve damage.

By transforming health pathways and addressing gender disparities, Kenya can strengthen its TB response and improve health outcomes for all.

The prevalence of dental caries, gum disease, and dental fluorosis remains alarmingly high in Kenya, with many cases left untreated, leading to long-term complications.

The exact cause is unknown, but possible factors include genetics, immune system disorders, and retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body).

With cannabis use on the rise in Kenya, public health experts stress the need for awareness campaigns and targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on society. Addressing the risks associated with marijuana use, particularly among the youth, remains a crucial step in safeguarding public health and well-being.

Beyond Kenya, experts at the conference emphasised the need for African nations to develop self-sustaining healthcare financing strategies rather than relying on unpredictable donor funding.

In addition to fumigation and spraying, the trained health team will conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public on the signs and symptoms of kala-azar, modes of transmission, incubation period, and preventive measures.

The vacancy arose following the suspension of Elijah Wachira in November 2024, amid investigations into his professional conduct and performance. Ingasira stepped in as acting CEO.

WHO’s Global TB Report 2024 shows that TB deaths in Africa have dropped by 42 per cent between 2015 and 2023, while cases have declined by 24 per cent.

Research consistently shows that tailored early intervention programmes can significantly improve cognitive, motor, and social abilities, offering children a better chance to thrive and reach their full potential.

The outbreak began in December last year and has rapidly spread across four sub-counties, overwhelming the county's healthcare system.

Legislators are now calling for urgent intervention to restore the country’s blood transfusion services and prevent further loss of lives.

Fluorosis is caused by excessive fluoride intake during early childhood when permanent teeth are still developing.

Counties affected include Kilifi, Kitui, Machakos, Nyeri, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, and Kisii.

Oluga previously served as the secretary-general of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) and as chief officer of health in the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).

From failed prescriptions to diplomatic postings, Nakhumicha’s transition marks a new chapter after her abrupt removal from office.

Failing to contribute or making unauthorised deductions from employees could result in fines up to Sh2 million, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

Senators questioned how the government plans to sustain the programme with such a funding shortfall.

About half of Sudan's population of 50 million now suffer some degree of acute hunger, and famine has taken hold in at least five areas, including several parts of North Darfur State in western Sudan.

Last month, the Health Ministry reported that 18,988,530 Kenyans had registered for SHA, but concerns over its effectiveness persist.

Desperate, he turned to a local hospital, but his condition worsened. By the time he was referred back to KNH, it was too late.

According to RUPHA Chairperson Dr. Brian Lishenga, SHA's reluctance to fully acknowledge NHIF's outstanding debts has placed hospitals in limbo, despite a directive from the president that service providers be paid.

PS Kimtai had threatened to shut down private healthcare facilities over concerns raised about unsettled claims under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

PS Kimtai criticised hospitals that have halted services, accusing them of using the situation to pressure the government.

A new audit report by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has revealed that the government made payments for doses that were not shipped.

In Kenya, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a key component of the government's strategy to achieve UHC) aiming to provide affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens, including those in the informal sector and vulnerable groups.

The restriction, which was initially imposed on December 11, 2024, was placed as a precautionary measure to allow for thorough investigations into the safety and quality of the drug.

Despite the growing burden of kidney disease, Kenya Tissue and Transplant Authority data shows that transplant numbers in Kenya remain significantly low.

CHPs are the backbone of Kenya’s primary healthcare system under Universal Health Coverage which focuses on primary health care.

Currently, over 5,000 patients in Kenya rely on dialysis to survive, while nearly 5 million Kenyans are living with chronic kidney disease.

Flu vaccines have been used safely for over 60 years, with annual immunisation recommended to maintain protection.

Dr Ester Mwaura stresses that managing diabetes during pregnancy requires close monitoring to prevent complications. She urges expectant mothers to attend regular prenatal clinics, as early detection and proper management are essential for both maternal and foetal health.

Experts attribute the increasing cases to changing lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and improved diagnostic capabilities that are now identifying cases that may have previously gone undetected.

Following the death of Dr Ndugulile, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus formally submitted the names of five candidates for consideration by Member States.

The supplies will be distributed through a partnership with the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies, ensuring their efficient delivery to those in need.

Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of autism in Kenya is rising, though it remains underreported due to limited access to healthcare services and a lack of awareness about early signs.

Recently, a 26-year-old trader and political activist, Collins Leitich, alias Chepkulei, came under scrutiny for setting up an unauthorised police patrol base in the Cherus centre of Kesses, Uasin Gishu County.

Diabetes can affect small blood vessels. This can cause high blood pressure and also lead to kidney disease.

Avocados can pose a serious health risk due to its high potassium content.

Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit overall health, including kidney function.

The ministry argues that the move aims to integrate HIV-related health records into Kenya’s digital health superhighway, ensuring data accessibility and service efficiency.

The agreement was signed at Afya House in the presence of CS Barasa, Council of Governors Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi, and other key stakeholders with clinical officers being directed to resume duty within 24 hours.

Experts warn that while Kenya has made significant progress, gaps remain in preparing for future health crises.

While emergency cases are still being admitted, the majority of patients are left to fend for themselves. The long queues, empty consultation rooms, and growing desperation paint a grim picture of a healthcare system on the brink of collapse.

In a statement on Wednesday, the board’s CEO Fred Siyoi PPB emphasised the need for strict adherence to manufacturer-recommended temperature and humidity levels throughout the supply chain.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the KMPDC stressed that such locations were unsuitable for healthcare services due to the potential spread of infections and safety hazards.

Migraines often come with a range of symptoms, including throbbing or pulsating headaches, usually affecting one side of the head.

The directive, approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday, will require property owners to cover the costs of removal and disposal.

The vaccination campaign took place between February 21 and 25, 2025, as part of the second phase of mass polio immunisation in regions deemed at high risk.

The 90-day foreign aid freeze, ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump after taking office on January 20, has upended the global supply chain for medical products to fight HIV and other diseases.

The delay has raised serious concerns over accountability, with calls for an urgent intervention to ensure the institute starts serving its intended purpose.

PS Muthoni said the government is now preparing for the second phase of SMC in June 2025, which will integrate digital monitoring tools to enhance efficiency and ensure better coordination of malaria prevention efforts.

Although AI adoption in Kenya is still in its early stages, it promises to enhance the capabilities of surgeons, reduce human error and provide safer outcomes for patients.

While there are other contributing factors, maintaining good hygiene and understanding the risks can significantly reduce the likelihood of a UT

Rupha has revealed that the government ignored the warnings, leading to hospitals grappling with financial instability and system failures.

The debt includes Sh6.8 billion in arrears owed by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), Sh2.2 billion in unpaid Social Health Authority (SHA) claims, and Sh1 billion under the Medical Assistance and Loans for Livelihoods (MALL) programme, which has remained unsettled since July 2023.

The study, which analysed more than one million responses from internet-enabled populations in 76 countries, reveals a stark contrast between Africa and the West. Mental well-being among 18- to 34-year-olds in high-income countries has plummeted since 2019.

According to PS Kimtai, SHA has so far registered 20.2 million Kenyans, reinforcing the need for an additional Sh3 billion to boost primary healthcare at Level 1, 2 and 3 hospitals.

A key concern raised in the report was the 2.7 million unverified hospital-related claims, making it difficult to determine NHIF's actual outstanding liabilities.

The report was released at a time when President William Ruto announced that the government would fully settle claims of up to Sh10 million owed to health facilities.

RUPHA maintained that services under Medical Administrator Kenya Limited (MAKL) will remain suspended due to unresolved financial concerns.

They threatened they will not offer services to patients seeking the services using the Social Health Authority (SHA) and will resort to cash services only.

All Nairobi County doctors and clinical officers downed their tools last week, crippling public healthcare services and leaving patients in distress. The strike, now in its seventh day, has forced hospitals to rely on consultants, a measure that remains inadequate as patient queues grow longer.

An NHIF Board Exit Report from November 2024 reveals that out of 16.2 million registered members, only 7.1 million were actively contributing.

Gathungu maintained that her role is limited to auditing and that Parliament must take action.

It added that the Cabinet Secretary will gazette the verification committee within a week to oversee the process.

Conducted on rats that exhibited a condition similar to type 2 diabetes, characterised by high blood sugar levels and impaired insulin effectiveness, the study found that fish oil supplementation could be a game-changer, even for non-obese individuals who suffer from insulin resistance.

The UHC workers, who were employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, expressed frustration over their current employment status, which they described as "precarious" and "illegal."

The audit findings have sparked concerns over drug safety at the referral facility, with questions arising as to why those responsible for monitoring stock failed to detect the expired drugs before the audit.

He explained that SHA is managed by a consortium of technology companies tasked with preventing fraudulent claims, a problem that plagued the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has dispatched officials to Kisii to aid in identifying the disease outbreak.

The flu is characterised by body weakness, dry coughs, headache, sore throat, fatigue, running nose, shortness of breath fevers and lack of appetite.

The mysterious illness has left residents experiencing severe diarrhea with bloody stools, fever, and intense headaches, with symptoms persisting for the past two weeks.

Nyutu warned that the failures in the health sector were not necessarily a result of the CS’s performance but rather deep-rooted structural problems.

Experts urge Kenya to recognise hearing loss as a disability and take concrete steps to make hearing care more accessible for all citizens.

By maintaining proper cleaning habits and storage practices, you can minimise your chances of recurrent UTIs and maintain a healthier home environment.

Perhaps the most controversial trend is the rise in diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro being flaunted as weight loss miracles.

Mudavadi stressed that the country can no longer rely on global donors to sustain Universal Health Coverage.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai dismissed claims of secrecy, assuring that the government is implementing safeguards to prevent abuse of the system.