Health Ministry issues public warning after hazardous chemical spill in Kiambu

The Ministry of Health has issued a public warning after a truck transporting sodium cyanide overturned in the Kambembe area of Roroni, Kiambu County.

The accident which occurred on Saturday is said to have resulted in a spill of the dangerous chemical, which the Ministry has termed as extremely toxic and poisonous.

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has cautioned residents to avoid the accident site, as ingesting or inhaling even small amounts of the chemical is potentially fatal.

She added that immediate symptoms of exposure include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.

Muthoni noted that severe exposure can also lead to loss of consciousness and convulsions within minutes.

"Prolonged or repeated exposure to lower levels can result in long-term health issues including neurological damage, thyroid dysfunction, and cardiovascular problems," she said in a statement on Saturday.

Environmental hazards

According to the PS, Sodium cyanide also causes environmental hazards to aquatic life, if it accidentally gets released into waterways.

She cautioned that it can cause extensive fish kills and long-term damage to aquatic ecosystems.

"Although sodium cyanide can degrade over time, its initial impact is often devastating," she said.

She stressed the use of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and eye protection especially when handling sodium cyanide to prevent direct exposure.

Additionally, adequate ventilation and spill containment systems are crucial in environments where sodium cyanide is handled or present.

"Thorough training on its hazards and emergency response procedures is mandatory for anyone who may need to handle sodium cyanide. Immediate access to antidotes is vital in case of any form of poisoning," she said.

The public has now been urged to avoid the site of the incident and to cooperate with the emergency and disaster response teams as they work to contain the situation.

The PS said further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

She emphasized that the ministry remains committed to ensuring public safety and managing the risks associated with hazardous substances.