Kenya: Officials close two hotels in Nairobi over cholera concerns July 19

Event

On Wednesday, July 19, Kenya's Ministry of Health announced that the Jacaranda and San Valencia hotels in Nairobi will be closed, effective immediately, due to cholera concerns. Health officials said that the hotels can reopen once the staff is confirmed to be cholera free. The Ministry of Health also revoked medical certificates for all food handlers on Monday, July 17. All food handlers are required to receive a new certification within 21 days as proof they are free of cholera and not at risk of spreading the disease. There have been at least 79 confirmed cases and four deaths from the disease in Nairobi since May as of July 19.

Context

The Weston Hotel in Nairobi was closed on June 22 due to an outbreak of cholera among hotel guests. At least 47 people were affected by the disease.

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.