Mombasa reports rise in mumps cases
An outbreak of mumps, a viral infection that affects the salivary glands, has been reported in Mombasa.
The cases have been reported mostly among pupils in various schools. Many learners have complained of fevers, headache, swollen cheeks and loss of appetite.
“My son started complaining of fever and loss of appetite, and then the following day l noticed his cheeks were swollen. I made calls to a friend doctor who advised me to take him for a checkup since it was a viral disease,” said Cate Nyambura, a resident of Mishomoroni.
Pauline Odera, a resident of Kongowea, said her daughter developed fever, loss of appetite and complained of pains.
“She returned from school one day with a swollen left cheek. The following day, the right cheek was also swollen and suddenly she had a fever. On asking around, I realised there were several other cases in her school,” Odera said.
A circular signed by County Director of Public Health Dr Salma Swaleh, confirmed that the county had been experiencing cases of mumps.
“It is with this regard that the County has decided to upscale Measles/Mumps surveillance,” Dr Swaleh stated in a communication addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital and other officials.
“Measles is one of the diseases targeted for eradication by the World Health Organisation together with Polio and Neonatal Tetanus. This is to ensure we don’t miss any potential cases for investigation. Please comply,” stated the director.
