In a new development, the Kerio Valley region has recently witnessed a significant increase in malaria cases.
Over the past two weeks, at least 400 people have been diagnosed with the disease in various health facilities.
Health authorities have expressed their alarm as the number of patients seeking treatment continues to rise, with local institutions feeling the strain of the outbreak.
The affected areas, including Endo, Lower Sambirir, Arror, Emsoo, Tambach Wards, and parts of Kapchemutwa ward, are under close surveillance, with the low lands of Keiyo South Sub County also being monitored for any potential outbreaks.
Responding promptly to the situation, Elgeyo Marakwet County government has mobilized its Public Health department to tackle the surge in malaria cases.
Leading the response team on the ground is Ms. Caroline Magut, the Chief Officer of Preventive and Promotive Health Services.
Ms. Magut addressed a public sensitization meeting at Chesongoch Center, where she outlined the measures to combat the outbreak.
One of the primary strategies being employed is Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) in over 11,000 households across the County. This targeted approach aims to eliminate adult mosquitoes present in homes, effectively disrupting the transmission cycle of the disease.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the authorities are enlisting the help of Community Health Promoters [CHP], who are actively involved in prevention efforts within the community. These promoters are well-trained and equipped with the necessary drugs and clothing to carry out their duties effectively.
Ms. Magut reassured the public that her department is fully prepared to address the upsurge in malaria cases. The Community Health Promoters have also been sensitized about the situation and are well-informed on the necessary steps to curb the spread of the disease.
The impact of the outbreak is being felt across various sectors, including the education system. Reports indicate that learners in several schools within Kerio Valley have been diagnosed with malaria, with some requiring admission for treatment.
The prevalence of malaria in the region is a staggering 50 percent, indicating the severity of the situation, with one out of two people visiting the hospitals testing positive for malaria.
Currently, no fatalities have been reported among the 350 patients admitted to various hospitals in Kerio Valley. However, health officials are leaving no stone unturned to prevent any loss of life.
The Medical Officer of Health for Marakwet East sub-county Mr. Jonathan Murtich confirmed that all the cases that have tested positive for malaria have the symptoms which typically included general body weakness, fever, and headaches.
In a promising observation, Ms. Magut noted that the last preventive exercise, involving IRS, was conducted in 2017. Since then, the region has remained without a malaria outbreak, highlighting the effectiveness of the intervention.
She remains optimistic that with the ongoing efforts, the situation would be brought under control within the next two weeks, significantly reducing the incidence of malaria.
As the authorities continue their proactive measures to combat the upsurge in malaria cases, they call upon the community to remain vigilant and cooperate in the prevention and control efforts. Public awareness campaigns and community engagement will play a crucial role in curbing the spread of the disease and ensuring a healthier and safer environment for all residents in the Kerio Valley region.
By Rennish Okong’o
