Kenya: Cholera outbreak in Mombasa county

Event

On Thursday, November 23, Kenyan health officials announced an ongoing cholera outbreak in Mombasa county. At least 25 confirmed cases and three deaths have been reported since the beginning of the outbreak on October 19. The outbreak is reportedly linked to food and water contamination caused by recent heavy rains and accumulated garbage. As such, the Mombasa county government announced that they will arrest all unlicensed food and water vendors and shut down hotels in an effort to eradicate the disease. The county has also opened emergency centers.

Context

Cholera is endemic to Kenya and can affect the entire country; according to local health officials, 18 counties throughout the country have been affected by cholera outbreaks since January. Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria that can induce acute diarrhea and vomiting, and subsequent dehydration. The risk of death is greatest among people with low immunity, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly (particularly before meals), drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Individuals who believe they may have contracted cholera should seek immediate medical attention.