As Kenya witnesses a resurgence of cholera in various areas, health officials in Elgeyo Marakwet County are urging residents to remain vigilant, despite no reported cases in the region so far.
Speaking in Iten, Caroline Magut, the county Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Services, confirmed that Elgeyo Marakwet remains cholera-free, but not risk-free.
“As of now, Elgeyo Marakwet has not reported any case of cholera,” said Magut.
“However, that does not mean we are safe. People are constantly traveling between counties, especially during this festive season. A single infected individual can introduce the disease here without knowing,” he said.
April typically sees a rise in social gatherings such as weddings, dowry ceremonies, and school holidays, all of which increase the risk of cholera transmission.
Magut emphasized that these events could easily become hotspots for the bacteria if basic hygiene is ignored.
“We are urging our residents to be extremely careful. Cholera is not just a seasonal disease; it is deadly and spreads fast when hygiene is compromised,” she warned.
According to Magut, cholera is caused by a bacterium known as Vibrio cholerae, which spreads through ingestion of contaminated food or water, particularly when it has been exposed to human feces.
“This disease is primarily spread through poor sanitation. Water sources, fruits, vegetables, and even cooked foods can be contaminated if cleanliness is not maintained,” she said.
The County Health Department is advising residents to take several precautions to protect themselves and their families by always washing hands with soap after using the toilet and before handling food, using clean and treated water for drinking and washing food items, eating properly cooked meals, avoiding eating at informal public gatherings, where hygiene standards cannot be assured and using toilets instead of defecating in open spaces.
“During events and celebrations, it’s easy to forget hygiene, but that’s when we need it the most,” Magut stressed.
“Let’s ensure that fruits and vegetables are washed with clean water, and drinking water is either boiled or treated with chlorine,” she said.
Magut also outlined the symptoms of cholera, which include frequent vomiting, severe watery diarrhea that resembles rice water, and rapid dehydration, a condition that can lead to death if untreated.
“Cholera kills quickly if not managed. The moment you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately,” she advised.
The County Health Department has already initiated awareness campaigns in markets and local events, urging people to be proactive in observing hygiene and reporting any suspected cases.
With travel and gatherings at an all-time high during this season, the county is taking no chances. Prevention is our best defense. Let’s all play our part,” said Magut.
By Rennish Okong’o
