How to protect yourself from influenza

The government has stepped up disease surveillance and preparedness measures following a spike in influenza cases across several parts of the country.

In a public health advisory issued on March 5, the Ministry of Health said it has observed increased influenza activity based on current risk assessments and surveillance data.

Director General of Health Patrick Amoth said the rise in cases aligns with the country’s established seasonal patterns and that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

“The Ministry of Health, through the Kenya National Public Health Institute and in collaboration with county governments, continues to monitor respiratory illnesses circulating within the country and across the region,” Amoth said.

Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral respiratory infection that spreads easily between people through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.

According to Amoth, Kenya is currently experiencing an increase in influenza cases in several regions, a trend that typically occurs twice a year.

“Kenya is currently experiencing an increase in influenza cases in several regions of the country. This increase is consistent with Kenya’s known seasonal influenza patterns, which typically occur between late February and May, and again between July and October each year,” he said.