Health Ministry links Kisii 'strange disease' to contaminated water
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has dispatched officials to Kisii to aid in identifying the disease outbreak.
The Ministry of Health has linked the ‘strange’ disease affecting over 200 people in Kisii to contaminated water.
In an update on Tuesday, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said tests confirmed the presence of faecal matter in a community well, making it the likely source of the outbreak.
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“Tests confirmed the presence of faecal matter in a community well which has contaminated the water, making it the likely source of the outbreak. Samples from the affected also show the presence of the matter,” she said.
The PS urged residents to refrain from using the contaminated water source and seek alternative clean water sources.
“However, preliminary investigations already are telling us that this water is not good for human consumption. I want to urge every member of this community to please observe a high level of hygiene,” she added.
The disease has affected residents across three villages, including Nyabigege, Nyamarondo and Nyarigiro. Symptoms reported include high fever, persistent diarrhea with bloody stools, dizziness, intense headaches, joint pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Those infected have been admitted to Tabaka Mission Hospital, Nyatike Level Two Hospital, Prina Hospital, and Royal Hospital in Rongo.
The rapid onset and spread of the illness have raised alarm among locals, many of whom are uncertain about the disease’s nature and how to protect themselves.
On Monday, Muthoni confirmed that health officials were on the ground actively collecting samples from those affected. She assured the public that the Ministry of Health is working closely with the Kisii County government to analyse the samples and determine an appropriate medical response.
She further assured residents that all necessary measures were being taken to contain the disease and safeguard public health.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has dispatched officials to Kisii to aid in identifying the disease outbreak.
In a statement, WHO said it is in South Mugirango to assess laboratory capacity, support laboratory officers in identifying the disease, and enhance coordination and capacity for outbreak response.
“WHO is on the ground in South Mugirango, Kisii County, working to identify the cause of an unknown disease outbreak,” read the statement.
“Key efforts include assessing lab capacity, supporting lab officers to identify the disease, and enhancing coordination and capacity for outbreak response. Investigations are ongoing.”
Health officials added that they continue to monitor the situation as efforts to contain the outbreak intensify.
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