The Mountain Journal
The County Government of Kirinyaga has intensified campaign against the spread of cholera
following the detection of sporadic cases in Ndia constituency.
The campaign that include sensitization of the residents through public barazas, health education
in schools and use of public address system in urban centers and villages is aimed at informing
the public on the importance of protecting themselves against the disease.
Speaking during a sensitization forum at Ndia Technical and Vocational College, the County
Executive Committee Member of Health, George Karoki, said that seven cases have in the
course of the month been detected in Gacaru and Kwa Vi in Ndia constituency.
He said that out of the cases, one person has been treated and discharged, while two others are in
stable condition as they undergo treatment at Sagana Subcounty Hospital. The other four are
being observed awaiting the results of their laboratory tests.
Karoki noted that cases of cholera, which is a highly contagious disease, have been on the rise in
many counties in the recent past, necessitating sustained public action on its prevention and
control. He said that the campaign is a multiagency initiative that incorporates the national
government administration and the ministry of education.
Besides carrying out public health education, the department has also been decontaminating
homesteads where cases have been reported. The county government is also giving aqua tabs to
enable vulnerable households in the affected areas to treat their drinking water and at the same
time giving protective prophylaxis treatment to people who have had close contact with cholera
patients.
Some of the cholera symptoms that the community has been advised to look out for include
watery diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and lethargy for which they should immediately visit a health
facility. Karoki noted that the disease can be fatal since it leads to dehydration thus the need for
one to get treatment from hospital.
The CEC has also appealed to members of the public to ensure that they observe the required
hygiene practices such as washing hands with soap and running water, consuming treated or
boiled water, eating well cooked and hot food and proper fecal waste disposal.
He also called upon all food handlers to ensure that food is prepared and sold under hygienic
conditions and appealed to the public to shun food that is hawked in disregard to public health
standards.
Karoki also warned owners of business enterprises or residential premises against discharging
affluent into rivers since it contributes to contamination of water.
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