The Ministry of Health has cautioned Kenyans about potential disease outbreaks and food shortages due to the ongoing weather conditions exacerbated by the heavy rains.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni in a statement on Wednesday, November 22 noted that floods are disrupting food production and submerging crops, potentially leading to reduced food availability and dietary diversity.
Muthoni warned that the El Nino rains may lead to an outbreak of waterborne and vector-borne illnesses such as Malaria, Rift Valley Hemorrhagic fever, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya among others.
The Health PS also pointed out that overcrowding in displacement camps may elevate the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles due to accessibility barriers, and poor disposal of human waste increasing the risk of diarrheal diseases.
“The public is advised to avoid crossing swollen rivers and relocate from high-risk areas prone to landslides and floods. Strict adherence to sanitation and hygiene practices is crucial, including frequent handwashing and proper waste disposal,” PS Muthoni stated.
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She urged Kenyans to treat drinking water before use and ensure food hygiene to prevent contamination.
PS Muthoni further called on the public to seek medical attention at the nearest health facility if they exhibit symptoms of waterborne diseases or any health concerns.
The Ministry of Health at the same time said it will collaborate with County Governments and Partners to ensure readiness to establish temporary health facilities in evacuated or inaccessible flood-prone areas as well as Stockpiling health emergency supplies.
