Bomet County was thrown into panic after 25 people were hospitalized for food poisoning after consuming meat from a dead cow in Masindoni, Chepalungu. The victims, including children and adults, fell ill after eating the carcass of a cow that had been sick for two weeks before dying.
According to Bomet County police commandant Edward Imbwaga, the victims developed severe symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea shortly after consuming the meat. Concerned locals, led by area chief Richard Koech and Nyumba Kumi members, quickly mobilized resources to take the affected individuals to a nearby medical facility.
With no ambulance immediately available, boda boda riders were requested to transport the victims to a private health facility at Ndanai trading center. Some patients received treatment and were discharged, while others remain hospitalized for further medical attention.
Despite the outbreak, authorities report that some villagers who partook in the meal are still hiding, possibly out of fear of repercussions or stigma. Efforts are underway to locate them and ensure they receive medical care if needed.
In response to the incident, police arrested 39-year-old Janeth Terer, the owner of the dead cow, for allowing it to be slaughtered and distributed among villagers. In a statement to authorities, Terer admitted to distributing the meat but claimed none of her family members consumed it.
This case highlights the dangers of consuming uninspected or contaminated meat, especially from animals that die due to illness. Authorities are urging residents to avoid eating meat from unknown sources and to report any similar incidents to health officials to prevent future outbreaks.
As the victims continue to receive medical attention, health officials are monitoring the situation closely. The police have also launched an investigation to determine if further legal action should be taken.
