State warns of Cholera outbreak in Nanyuki

The government has warned of a cholera outbreak following the confirmation of multiple cases of cholera infections reported in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.

The Directorate of Public Communications confirmed the outbreak via an X statement on Friday, announcing that multiple cases of severe diarrhoea have been documented at the British Army camp in Nanyuki.

Watery diarrhoea stands out as a primary symptom of cholera infections.

"The British Army in Kenya has confirmed a severe diarrhoea outbreak. A unique parasite sub-type linked to farmed monkeys in China has been identified," said the Directorate in the statement.

"Stay informed, practice hygiene measures and seek immediate medical attention if symptomatic."

In August last year, the government launched an Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaign targeting eight high-risk counties in which outbreaks of the disease have occasionally been reported.

Vaccination campaign

Last September, highlighted that following the launch of the campaign, vaccinated individuals surpassed the initial goal of 1,590,378, resulting in a coverage rate of 104.5 per cent.

“The Cholera campaign was launched in response to the pressing need to curb ongoing outbreaks that have infected 12, 079 people with 200 fatalities in 27 counties,” Public Health Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni said last September.

“The selection of these counties was strategic, based on their ongoing or pronounced cholera outbreaks since October 2022. Building upon the success of the earlier campaign in February 2023, where 2,033,999 individuals were reached, achieving a coverage rate of 99.2 per cent against the set target of 2,050,484.”

Additionally, the PS mentioned that the Ministry of Health plans to persist with the vaccination campaign throughout 2024.

According to WebMD, if left untreated cholera infections can lead to death.

"Symptoms of cholera can begin as soon as a few hours or as long as five days after infection. Often, symptoms are mild. But sometimes they are very serious," reads WebMD's website.

"About one in 20 people infected have severe watery diarrhoea accompanied by vomiting, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Although many infected people may have minimal or no symptoms, they can still contribute to the spread of the infection."