Contaminated Water Linked to Kisii Disease as WHO Steps In

• Mar 04, 2025

Health Ministry Links Kisii Disease to Contaminated Water

Health officials have identified contaminated water as the likely cause of a disease outbreak in Kisii that has affected over 200 people. The Ministry of Health confirmed on Tuesday that tests found faecal matter in a community well, making it the probable source of the illness.

Speaking during an update, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni urged residents to avoid using the contaminated water and seek cleaner alternatives.

"Tests confirmed the presence of faecal matter in a community well, which has contaminated the water, making it the likely source of the outbreak," Muthoni said. "Samples from those affected also show the presence of this contamination."

Widespread Illness and Urgent Response

The outbreak has spread across three villages—Nyabigege, Nyamarondo, and Nyarigiro—where residents have reported severe symptoms. These include high fever, persistent diarrhea with bloody stools, dizziness, intense headaches, joint pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Many of those infected have been admitted to various hospitals, including Tabaka Mission Hospital, Nyatike Level Two Hospital, Prina Hospital, and Royal Hospital in Rongo. The rapid spread of the illness has caused fear and uncertainty among locals, with many unsure of how to protect themselves.

On Monday, Muthoni confirmed that health officials were already on the ground collecting samples from patients. She reassured the public that the Ministry of Health is working closely with the Kisii County government to analyze these samples and determine the best medical response.

"We are taking all necessary measures to contain the disease and safeguard public health," she said.

WHO Steps In to Assist

As part of the efforts to control the outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) has sent a team to Kisii to help identify the disease. In a statement, WHO confirmed its presence in South Mugirango, Kisii County, where experts are assessing laboratory capacity, assisting lab officers in identifying the disease, and improving outbreak response coordination.

"WHO is on the ground in South Mugirango, Kisii County, working to identify the cause of an unknown disease outbreak," the organization said. "Key efforts include assessing lab capacity, supporting lab officers to identify the disease, and enhancing coordination and capacity for outbreak response. Investigations are ongoing."

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts to contain the outbreak are intensified. Residents have been advised to maintain high levels of hygiene and avoid drinking from unverified water sources to prevent further spread of the disease.