Ministry warns of cholera, malaria risk as heavy rains continue

The Ministry of Health Kenya has issued a public health alert warning of a possible rise in water-borne and vector-borne diseases as heavy rains continue to pound several parts of the country.

In a statement signed by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, the ministry cautioned that the ongoing March–April–May rains could increase the risk of disease outbreaks if preventive measures are not observed.

The ministry noted that while the rains are crucial for agriculture and replenishing water resources, they also create conditions that may expose communities to various public health threats.

“The Ministry of Health wishes to alert the public that the ongoing March-April-May long rains are expected to continue in several parts of the country,” the statement read.

“While the rains are important for agriculture and water resources, they may also increase the risk of certain public health threats.”

According to the ministry, heavy rainfall and flooding can contaminate water sources, disrupt sanitation systems and create ideal breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors such as mosquitoes.

“Heavy rainfall and flooding can lead to contamination of water sources, increased breeding of disease vectors such as mosquitoes, displacement of communities, and disruptions to sanitation systems,” the statement said.

“These conditions can contribute to outbreaks of communicable diseases and other health hazards.”

Among the major risks highlighted by the ministry are water-borne diseases such as cholera, typhoid and other diarrhoea illnesses which may arise from consumption of contaminated water or food.

The ministry also warned of a potential increase in vector-borne diseases including malaria and dengue fever due to the increased number of stagnant water bodies that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes during the rainy season.

Health officials further cautioned that cold and damp weather conditions could lead to a rise in respiratory infections, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Flood-related injuries were also listed among the possible risks during the rainy season.

“Members of the public should also be aware of flood-related injuries including drowning, trauma and snake bites which may occur during flooding incidents,” the ministry said.

The ministry also warned that poor sanitation and accumulation of waste caused by flooding could further contribute to disease outbreaks if not properly managed.

To minimise health risks, the Ministry of Health urged the public to adopt preventive measures aimed at protecting themselves and their families.

Residents have been advised to ensure their drinking water is safe by boiling it, chlorinating it or using approved water treatment methods before consumption.

“Ensure drinking water is safe by boiling, chlorinating, or using approved water treatment methods,” the statement said.

The ministry also encouraged the public to maintain proper hygiene practices including regular handwashing with soap and safe handling of food to prevent contamination.

In addition, households have been urged to take measures to prevent mosquito breeding by draining stagnant water around their homes and sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

“Use mosquito prevention measures such as sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, draining stagnant water around homes and using repellents where necessary,” the statement advised.

Members of the public were also warned against walking or driving through flooded areas, noting that floodwaters may be contaminated and pose serious safety risks.

The ministry urged individuals experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever or difficulty breathing to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.

Meanwhile, the government said it had strengthened preparedness measures to detect and respond to possible disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments and partners, has strengthened disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and rapid response mechanisms to detect and respond to any public health threats that may arise during the rainy season,” the statement said.