NEWSBRIEF: KENYA – The Ministry of Health have officially declared a cholera outbreak in Kenya after 97 cases have been reported from various counties including 6 deaths.
Areas Affected by the Cholera Outbreak in Kenya
Three counties as of April 6, had recorded cholera cases and they are as follows:
- Nairobi County with affected sub-counties being – Kasarani, Kibera, Roysambu, Embakasi Central, Embakasi East and Dagoretti South. These areas have reported 12 cases and 1 death.
- Kisumu County with Muhoroni and Nyando sub-counties being affected. Recorded cases are 32 and 4 deaths.
- Migori County with affected sub-counties being – Kuria East, Kuria West, Suna East and Suna West. These areas have reported 53 cases and 1 death. Most of the patients in this county have recovered, but 2 remain in hospital.
What Causes Cholera
Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by a bacteria called Vibrio cholerae.
One gets cholera after drinking water or eating food contaminated by the bacteria.
Signs and Symptoms of Cholera
The signs and symptoms of cholera appear within hours or up to 5 days after drinking water or eating food containing the cholera bacteria.
The symptoms are:
- Watery diarrhea.
- Leg cramps.
- Vomiting.
- Irritability/restlessness.
Cholera Prevention
- Drink boiled or treated water.
- Wash raw foods like fruits thoroughly using clean water.
- Wash your hands with soap and clean water.
- Use of toilets and avoid dumping human stool near bodies of water.
- Avoid eating raw vegetables.
- Eat thoroughly cooked food.
- Maintain cleanliness.