Cholera Outbreak in Kisumu Claims Three Lives, Health Measures Launched

• Mar 27, 2025

Cholera Outbreak in Kisumu Claims Three Lives, Urgent Actions Taken

A cholera outbreak in Kisumu County has led to the deaths of three people, triggering immediate actions by health officials to prevent further spread. The fatalities, which occurred in Nyando Sub-County, include a one-year-old child from Kakmie village and two siblings, a 25-year-old man and a 13-year-old girl, from Kobong’o village in Onjiko location. Their deaths have raised alarm and highlight the urgent need for intervention.

Health experts believe that contaminated water and poor sanitation are the main causes of the outbreak. Many residents in the affected areas rely on unsafe water sources, making them more vulnerable to waterborne diseases. Inadequate waste disposal and sanitation facilities have made the situation worse, contributing to the rapid spread of cholera. Health authorities fear that without swift action, more lives could be lost.

In response, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) have launched emergency measures to curb the outbreak. Public health officials have begun awareness campaigns to educate the community about hygiene practices that can help prevent the disease. Efforts to treat water and provide clean drinking sources are also underway.

On Wednesday morning, Nyando Deputy County Commissioner Elijah Maranga led a public forum aimed at promoting better hygiene. Maranga emphasized the need for proper sanitation, particularly in areas where open defecation is common. He urged families and public institutions to build and maintain pit latrines to help prevent the spread of cholera.

Ruth Ojuka, Nyando Sub-County Community Health Focal Person, pointed out the lack of sanitary facilities in many homes. In a recent survey, only 37 of 106 households in Kogola village had access to safe toilets. Ojuka stressed that collective action is needed to improve sanitation and avoid future outbreaks.

Philip Adingo, a Public Health Officer at the Ministry of Health, encouraged residents to seek medical help if they experience symptoms like severe diarrhea or dehydration. He also urged people to boil or treat drinking water and practice proper handwashing to reduce their risk of infection.

As the situation is being closely monitored, public health teams have been deployed to provide treatment and prevent new cases. The government has committed to improving water supply infrastructure and ensuring the safety of residents in the affected areas. However, officials stress that community cooperation is key to stopping the outbreak and saving lives.