The Ministry of Health has identified contaminated water as the likely source of a mysterious disease affecting over 200 people in Kisii County. In an update on Tuesday, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni confirmed that laboratory tests detected the presence of fecal matter in a community well, which has likely led to the outbreak. Health authorities have since urged residents to avoid consuming water from the contaminated source and seek alternative clean water supplies to prevent further infections.
The outbreak has affected residents in three villages: Nyabigege, Nyamarondo, and Nyarigiro. The symptoms reported among those infected include high fever, persistent diarrhea with bloody stools, dizziness, severe headaches, joint pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite. The rapid onset and spread of the illness have heightened concerns among locals, many of whom remain unsure about the nature of the disease and the best ways to protect themselves. The Ministry of Health has reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to contain the outbreak and safeguard community health.
Health officials have been actively collecting samples from affected individuals to facilitate further analysis and determine the most appropriate medical response. The Ministry of Health is working closely with the Kisii County government to monitor the situation and provide necessary medical interventions. Residents have been advised to observe strict hygiene practices, including boiling water before drinking and maintaining proper sanitation standards, to reduce the risk of further infections.
Several patients suffering from the disease have been admitted to healthcare facilities, including Tabaka Mission Hospital, Nyatike Level Two Hospital, Prina Hospital, and Royal Hospital in Rongo. The sudden increase in hospital admissions has put pressure on local medical facilities, prompting health authorities to enhance emergency response measures. Public health officers have been deployed to the affected areas to educate residents on ways to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has dispatched a team to Kisii County to support local health authorities in identifying the disease outbreak. In a statement, WHO confirmed that its officials are in South Mugirango to assess laboratory capacity, support local laboratory officers in diagnosing the disease, and enhance coordination efforts to strengthen outbreak response mechanisms. WHO’s involvement is expected to bolster the ongoing investigations and provide additional expertise in handling the situation.
The Ministry of Health has emphasized that residents should remain vigilant and seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms associated with the outbreak. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and ongoing investigations aim to establish further details about the disease and the best course of action to prevent its escalation. Public awareness campaigns are also being intensified to educate communities on safe water practices and effective hygiene measures.
As efforts to contain the disease progress, the government remains committed to ensuring that all affected individuals receive the necessary medical care. Local leaders and public health officials are calling for increased cooperation from the community to prevent further spread and mitigate the impact of the outbreak. The Ministry of Health has assured residents that continued updates will be provided as more information emerges regarding the nature and scope of the disease.
