Kenya: Cholera outbreak continues nationwide /update 1

Event

According to local reports, an ongoing cholera outbreak is affecting the following counties: Garissa, Isiolo, Machakos, Meru, Turkana, and West Pokot. Across the country, 2943 cases, including 55 fatalities, have been reported as of mid-May. In Turkana, one of the hardest hit counties, more than 700 cases have been reported since January 2018. More than 250 cases and five deaths have also been reported in the Dadaab refugee complex in Garissa since March 31. Authorities believe heavy rain over the past two months has exacerbated the outbreak and emergency medical teams from Médecins Sans Frontières have been deployed across the affected regions to help contain the disease.

Context

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.