Nairobi County is grappling with a cholera outbreak that has claimed one life and infected 12 people, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed on Tuesday.
The hardest-hit estates include Roysambu, Kasarani, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Kibra and Dagoretti South. The Ministry of Health has sounded the alarm as cases surge across densely populated areas of the capital.
Nationwide, 97 cases have been reported, with six fatalities. Migori and Kisumu are among the most affected counties. Migori has reported 53 cases and one death, while Kisumu has recorded 32 cases and four deaths, primarily in Nyando and Muhoroni.
“Cholera is a highly infectious waterborne disease caused by Vibrio cholerae,” Duale said in a statement. “It spreads through contaminated food and water and can cause severe dehydration or death if left untreated.”
The symptoms include watery diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps and rapid dehydration—often appearing within hours to a few days after infection.
In response, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments, has launched emergency interventions. Rapid response teams have been deployed for contact tracing, surveillance and treatment.
Healthcare workers are undergoing training on managing cases, improving sanitation practices and effective risk communication. Public education campaigns are underway through local administrators and media to promote hygiene and safe food handling.
Field investigations revealed widespread use of untreated water, prompting the Ministry to roll out household water treatment drives and enforce hygiene regulations.
Duale warned against self-medication and urged the public to seek immediate medical care upon showing symptoms. He also emphasized handwashing, thorough food preparation and using clean water as vital prevention steps.
The Ministry has also called for the installation of public handwashing stations and proper waste disposal facilities.
“We are committed to controlling this outbreak,” said Duale. “But we need collective action from every Kenyan to curb its spread.”
The government continues to monitor the situation, assuring the public of sustained response efforts.
