The Ministry of Health has confirmed a cholera outbreak in several parts of the country, with 97 reported cases and six deaths as of April 6, 2025. The affected regions include Migori, Kisumu, and Nairobi counties, raising concerns over the rapid spread of this waterborne disease.
Cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholera bacteria, is highly contagious and typically spreads through the consumption of contaminated water or food. Symptoms of cholera can include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and rapid dehydration, often appearing within hours to days of exposure. If left untreated, cholera can lead to death.
As of the latest report, Migori County has recorded 53 cases and one death, with most cases in the sub-counties of Suna East, Suna West, Kuria East, and Kuria West. While the majority of patients have recovered, two individuals remain hospitalized. Kisumu County has reported 32 cases and four deaths, primarily in Nyando and Muhoroni sub-counties. Nairobi County has recorded 12 cases and one death, with the affected areas including Kasarani, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Roysambu, Kibra, and Dagoretti South sub-counties.
In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with local county governments, is implementing several interventions to curb the spread of the disease. These efforts include enhanced surveillance, health worker training, risk communication, and community engagement. Active case searches, contact tracing, and rapid response teams are being deployed both at the national and county levels. Additionally, healthcare professionals are receiving training in surveillance, case management, water sanitation, hygiene, and communication strategies.
The Ministry is also focusing on water hygiene and sanitation measures, including promoting household water treatment, enforcing hygiene practices, and ensuring food safety. Investigations have identified the consumption of untreated water as a significant factor in the spread of cholera. The Ministry is also testing suspected cases, providing treatment for confirmed cases, and offering prophylaxis to close contacts of those infected.
To prevent further spread of cholera, the Ministry has issued several public health safety guidelines for the public to follow:
- Personal hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and clean water, especially after using the toilet, before eating or preparing food, and after caring for the sick. Public places should ensure access to handwashing stations with clean water and soap or provide hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.
- Safe water and sanitation: Drink only clean water that has been boiled or chlorinated. Avoid consuming untreated water from rivers or lakes. Ensure that water is stored in clean, covered containers and that waste is properly disposed of to prevent contamination. Latrines should be kept clean and functional, and open defecation should be avoided.
- Food safety: Before preparing food, wash hands and sanitize surfaces. Use clean water for cooking and washing produce. Cook all food thoroughly, especially meat and fish, and store food in clean containers. Leftovers should be reheated thoroughly before consumption.
- Early health seeking: At the first signs of diarrhea, individuals are encouraged to begin taking Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and seek immediate medical care at the nearest health facility. Self-medication and the use of traditional remedies should be avoided.
The Ministry has reassured the public that Kenya is adequately prepared to manage and contain the cholera outbreak. Surveillance efforts have been intensified, and community awareness campaigns are being ramped up to ensure quick responses to any new cases. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the country’s commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that emerging threats are addressed in a timely manner. The Ministry urges all citizens to stay informed and follow the safety guidelines to help control the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.
