Kajiado on high alert over cholera spread

The Kajiado County government has launched a crackdown on unhygienic food outlets to avert a looming outbreak of cholera.

As of yesterday, 12 cholera patients were recuperating at Ongata Rongai Sub-County Hospital in Kajiado North.

The patients were drawn from various parts of the larger Ong’ata Rongai town with the county’s Department of Health sounding an alarm over a possible spread of the waterborne disease.

County Executive Committee member in charge of Health Alex Kilowua (pictured) said the patients were in stable condition adding that the hospital was well equipped to handle the situation.

He further called on the members of public to observe high standards of hygiene to avert a further spread of the disease.

“The county health department surveillance team has been put on high alert. Ong’ata Rongai, Kiserian and Ngong towns have been given more attention due to proximity to the detected cases. We have also sent an alert to all other major towns including Kitengela and Kajiado,” said Kilowua.

Water shortage

Kajiado North Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Mwangi said the cholera outbreak was attributed to a biting shortage of water, a situation which, he said, had compromised public hygiene.

“We understand that there is an acute water shortage both in urban and rural areas. However, those handling food should be considerate enough and ensure they maintain acceptable hygiene standards. It is not prudent whatsoever to compromise food hygiene citing water shortage,” said Mwangi.

He further cautioned members of the public against eating from unhygienic eateries and consuming fruits and vegetables that have not been washed properly.

“Cholera is easily and widely spread. There is no sacred person when it comes to cholera. The only containment is hygiene and everyone has a responsibility of curbing the killer disease,” added Mwangi, further cautioning schools management on the importance of proper hygiene.

Members of the public who display symptoms of cholera have been advised to report to the nearest hospital.