Govt Links Kisii Illness Outbreak To Contaminated Water

The government has attributed the outbreak of illness in South Mugirango, Kisii County, to contaminated water.

Residents in Amarondo, Nyabigege, and Nyagiro villages have reported cases of diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and headaches.

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki on Tuesday revealed that preliminary investigations point to a contaminated spring as the likely source of the infection.

The spring serves as the primary water source for the affected villages.

“Laboratory results have confirmed the presence of bacteria commonly found in human or animal fecal matter, making the water unsafe for consumption unless properly treated,” Muthoni said.

She added that further laboratory tests on stool samples from affected patients are ongoing to determine the specific cause of the outbreak.

Residents have been advised to ensure their drinking water is safe, store water properly, practice good hand hygiene, use proper sanitation facilities, and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms.

“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county health officials and other stakeholders, is taking urgent steps to contain the outbreak. These include intensified public health education, water treatment interventions, and continued surveillance,” Muthoni said.