Garissa confirms one case of Rift Valley Fever in livestock

One case of the Rift Valley Fever in livestock has been confirmed in Garissa County, following the testing of at least 100 serum samples by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Livestock Development director Haret Hambe said the infected cow was found in Iftin Ward, Garissa Township.

Hambe said more samples were collected from the animal and its handlers for further testing.

He said officials were on high alert following the case and that they had rolled out several initiatives including livestock vaccination and disease surveillance.

"The incident should not cause panic since precautions have been taken," he said.

Hambe further asked herders to be cautious and to report any suspected RFV cases to community animal health workers.

Human cases of RFV have been reported in counties including Mombasa, Marsabit and Wajir.

Marsabit recently confirmed an outbreak after four cases were confirmed.

“This outbreak is closely associated with the conclusion of the El Nino rains, leading to a surge in the mosquito population and an increased transmission of vector-borne diseases,” Patrick Amoth, the acting director-general for health said at the time.

Amoth also encouraged people who assist with animal births, dispose of carcasses and handle retained placentas, and still or aborted animal births to use protective gear such as gowns and gloves.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed cases of the disease in the two counties and said the government had dispatched 1.2 million insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent the spread.

The Rift Valley fever (RVF) is transmitted by mosquitoes and blood-feeding flies.