Narok: Four people have been reported dead while 15 others are struggling for their lives in hospital after an outbreak of Cholera in parts of Trans Mara West Sub County. Following the disease outbreak, the Department of Health and Sanitation in Narok County has banned food hawking in all trading centers and towns in the county.
According to Kenya News Agency, Narok County Director of Health Dr. Francis Kiio confirmed the deaths, which include three adults and a child from Kilgoris Central, Lolgorian, and Shakoe wards. The first suspected cases of acute watery diarrhea were reported on September 29 at Trans Mara West Sub County Hospital, with eight cases registered on that date. Laboratory tests at Trans Mara West Sub County Hospital and Walter Reed Kericho laboratory confirmed Cholera in the patients.
In response, 20 patients have been treated and discharged, while Community Health Promoters (CHPs) are actively visiting villages to raise awareness about the outbreak. Dr. Kiio stated that health partners have been instrumental in containing the disease through the distribution of personal protective equipment and water treatment commodities.
Narok County Executive Committee (CEC) member in Charge of Health and Sanitation Antony Namunguk cautioned that the disease has been reported in other regions, urging for increased surveillance and active case searches in health facilities and communities. A temporary Cholera treatment unit has been established at the Trans Mara West County hospital.
Emphasizing the importance of sanitation, the CEC called for proper use of toilets to prevent the disease's transmission, which often occurs through open defecation. Felix Mayio, Head of Kenya Red Cross Society, South Rift region, confirmed their collaboration with the health department to control the disease, supplying essential equipment to prevent and treat Cholera.
Efforts to combat the outbreak were highlighted at a gathering at Narok County Referral Hospital, where equipment, including motorbikes and protective gear, was distributed to aid in the fight against the spread of the disease.