Govt Tells Kenyans To Brace For Disease Outbreak, Food Shortage During El Nino Rains

The Ministry of Health has warned Kenyans to brace for a series of health risks including potential fatalities, food shortage and disease outbreaks during the ongoing El Nino rains.

In a statement seen by Viral Tea dated Wednesday, November 22, Health Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni emphasized to the general public, especially in the counties that have reported enhanced heavy rains on critical need for being extra vigilant due to the health risks associated with the ongoing weather conditions exacerbated by the heavy rains.

In particular, the floods were presenting a high risk of injuries and fatalities due to surface run-off and mudslides, particularly in hilly areas.

The floods were also rendering health facilities inaccessible as a result of floodwaters and damaged roads among other infrastructure, impacting the delivery of crucial healthcare services and putting Kenyans' lives at risk.

Health Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni during a meeting with the El Nino taskforce on November 21, 2023. /MINISTRY OF HEALTH

"Challenges in nutrition due to flooding, disrupting food production and submerging crops, potentially leading to reduced food availability and dietary diversity," stated the PS.

PS Muthoni also raised an alarm regarding the increase in waterborne diseases and vector-borne illnesses like malaria, Rift Valley Hemorrhagic fever, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya among others.

"Overcrowding in displacement camps may further elevate the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles due to accessibility barriers and poor disposal of human waste increasing the risk of diarrheal diseases," added the statement.

In response, the Ministry of Health, Muthoni added, is collaborating with county governments and partners to implement a comprehensive response plan focusing on vulnerable areas within the health system.

The measures depicted in the response plan include:

1. Activation of the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and prompt activation of County Emergency Operation Centres.
2. Preparedness of Health facility capacity
3. Addressing vector-borne illnesses such as Rift Valley Hemorrhagic fever, Dengue fever, Chikungunya and Malaria, among others through the distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNS) and provision of insect repellants.
4. Emphasizing preventive health measures, including vaccinations against vaccine-preventable diseases.
5. Providing technical assistance and supporting county Governments through rapid response teams.

"Additionally, collaboration with County Governments and Partners to ensure readiness to establish temporary health facilities in evacuated or inaccessible flood-prone areas, stockpiling health emergency supplies to prevent shortages and ensuring well-stocked health facilities for prompt response," added the PS.

The Ministry advised members of the public to avoid crossing swollen rivers and relocate from high-risk areas prone to landslides and floods, stating that strict adherence to sanitation and hygiene practices is crucial, including frequent handwashing and proper waste disposal.

It also underscored the vital importance of treating drinking water before use and ensuring food hygiene to prevent contamination.

Immediate medical attention, the PS further noted, is recommended at the nearest health facility for symptoms of waterborne diseases or any health concerns.

The Ministry urged the public to utilize emergency helplines [719, 0729471414 or 0732353535] for assistance and to stay informed about local vaccination programs to safeguard against preventable diseases.