NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 28 – The Ministry of Health has launched an emergency response to contain a Kala-azar outbreak in Wajir and Marsabit counties, where 617 cases have been reported, and 25 lives have been lost.
Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni on Friday flagged off three mobile laboratories equipped with molecular testing machines, diagnostic reagents, and personal protective equipment.
These units will support early diagnosis, active case detection, and timely treatment in the most affected sub-counties.
Kala-azar, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, is fatal in over 95 percent of untreated cases.
It presents with prolonged fever, weight loss, fatigue, anemia, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen and liver.
Currently, 106 patients are hospitalized in Wajir County. In response, the Ministry is scaling up hospital capacity, supplying emergency medical commodities, and conducting community outreach to raise awareness and promote prevention.
Speaking during the flag-off, PS Mary Muthoni emphasized the urgency of a coordinated response.
“These mobile laboratories will play a critical role in strengthening our disease surveillance and response efforts. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to controlling this outbreak and preventing further loss of life,” she said.
She urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms and to take protective measures such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellents, and sleeping under insecticide-treated nets.
The PS assured the public that comprehensive response measures are in place to contain the outbreak.
Source: capitalfm
