The Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in several parts of the country, with reports of 97 cases and six fatalities as of April 6, 2025.

In a statement on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, the health ministry said the cholera outbreak is affecting the counties of Migori, Kisumu, and Nairobi, raising urgent concerns about the spread of the waterborne disease.

Cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholera bacteria, is highly contagious and typically spreads through the consumption of food or water contaminated with the bacteria.

Symptoms of the disease include sudden onset of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and rapid dehydration, often appearing within hours to days of exposure.

The Ministry of Health has stressed the importance of immediate medical attention for those suspected to be infected, as cholera can lead to death if left untreated.

Current situation

As of the latest report by the Ministry of Health:

Migori County has recorded 53 cases and one death. The affected sub-counties include Suna East, Suna West, Kuria East, and Kuria West. Most patients have recovered, though two remain hospitalized.

Kisumu County has reported 32 cases and four deaths, primarily from Nyando and Muhoroni sub-counties.

Nairobi County has seen 12 cases and one death, with cases spread across Kasarani, Embakasi East, Embakasi Central, Roysambu, Kibra, and Dagoretti South sub-counties.

Ongoing response measures

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with local County Governments, is implementing a series of interventions:

1. Enhanced Surveillance: Active case searches, contact tracing, and rapid response deployment are being carried out both nationally and at the county level.

2. Health Worker Training: Healthcare professionals are being trained in surveillance, case management, water sanitation, hygiene, and communication strategies.

3. Risk Communication & Community Engagement: The Ministry is disseminating information through community health promoters, administrative officers, media channels, and distributing informational materials, including videos, to raise awareness.

4. Water Hygiene and Sanitation Measures: Efforts include promoting household water treatment, enforcing hygiene practices, and ensuring food safety, particularly after field investigations identified the consumption of untreated water.

5. Case Management: The Ministry is testing suspected cases, providing treatment for confirmed cases, and offering prophylaxis to close contacts of infected individuals.

Recommended public health actions

To prevent the spread of cholera and protect public health, the Ministry of Health urges all Kenyans to follow these important guidelines:

1. Personal hygiene

Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially after using the toilet, before eating or preparing food, and after caring for the sick.

Ensure accessible handwashing stations in public places with clean water and soap, or use hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.

2. Safe water and sanitation

Drink only clean water that is boiled or chlorinated. Avoid untreated water from rivers or lakes.

Store water in clean, covered containers, and properly dispose of waste to prevent water contamination.

Maintain clean, functional latrines and avoid open defecation.

3. Food safety

Wash hands and sanitize surfaces before preparing food.

Use clean water for cooking and washing produce. Cook all food thoroughly, especially meat and fish.

Store food properly in clean containers, and reheat leftovers thoroughly.

4. Early health seeking

At the first signs of diarrhea, immediately begin taking Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and seek medical care at the nearest health facility.

Avoid self-medication and the use of traditional remedies.

Ministry’s commitment

The Ministry of Health reassures the public that Kenya is adequately prepared to manage and contain the cholera outbreak.

Surveillance activities have been significantly stepped up, and community awareness efforts are being intensified to ensure quick responses to any new cases.

“The Ministry of Health reassures the public that the country is adequately prepared to manage and contain this outbreak. We are on high alert in all Counties. surveillance activities have been stepped up, as well as intensified community awareness to ensure that any alerts are responded to in a timely manner.

“The Ministry remains committed to ensure that we safeguard the health of our communities, and that every Kenyan is protected from emerging public health threats,” Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said.

The Ministry urges all citizens to stay informed and adhere to safety protocols to help control the outbreak and prevent further spread.