Cholera outbreak claims one life in Homa Bay County

Homa Bay, Tuesday May 23, 2023

KNA by Davis Langat

A seven-year-old girl has been confirmed dead after contracting cholera in Kaksingri west Ward in Homa Bay county.

Health Chief Officer Kevin Osuri said that the child was badly dehydrated and that she was taken to the hospital when it was too late.

He said the girl identified as Janet Achieng could have been saved if she had been taken to the hospital early enough. 

Speaking to the press today, Osuri said that the number of people who have contracted the disease had now risen to 73.

He said the county government is collaborating with other health partners to contain the disease.

The disease started spreading from early last week and was first reported in Wadiang’a main beach in Suba South constituency.

Osuri assured residents that health officials were working round the clock to ensure the spread is brought under control.

Majority of the cases currently being reported are from Sindo town market with majority of patients being fisher folk from Wadiang’a beach.

The Chief Officer said his department has issued precautionary measures for  residents to observe to prevent further spread of the disease.

"We have suspended catering services in funerals and other events. This will ensure we reduce the spread,” Osuri said.

Osuri said traders operating eateries especially in Sindo have been directed to shut down their businesses until the disease was brought under control.

He said public health personnel were on the ground doing civic education to curb further spread.

Red Cross County Coordinator Samuel Omondi said his team was also on the ground educating residents on how to avoid contracting the disease.

He said the Kenya Red Cross officials were also disinfecting homes in the epicenter of the disease outbreak.

“We’re giving out chlorine and other chemicals for water treatment to ensure residents consume safe water.” He said.

Courtesy; K.N.A