Residents of Kisumu City have been put on high alert following the outbreak of cholera in the area.
Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation Dr. Gregory Ganda said the sprawling Nyalenda A and Nyalenda B slums have been mapped as the epicenters of the disease with five cases already confirmed.
Public Health officers, he added were actively investigating diarrhoea cases reported in Kachok, Kanyakwar, Capital, Mamboleo, Libeto and Kapuothe areas.
As a measure to contain the disease, Dr. Ganda said the county government has taken up provision of clean drinking water at all the affected areas.
Public health officers, he added have embarked on re-inspection of all eateries and food outlets in the area to ensure they meet high hygiene standards.
Members of the public, he added have been asked to maintain high standards of personal hygiene including proper handwashing after visiting latrines and before eating.
He further called for proper disposal of human waste and boiling of drinking water to keep the disease at bay.
Dr. Ganda further asked members of the public to avoid street foods and ensure that their meals are properly cooked and served hot.
Any person presenting acute watery diarrhoea and vomiting, he said must seek treatment at the nearest health facility.
The department, he said was closely monitoring the situation and will update the public accordingly.
Cholera is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes severe diarrhoea, dehydration and in severe cases death.
The bacteria are spread through contaminated food and water.
By Chris Mahandara
