The Ministry of Health has issued a public health alert warning of a possible rise in water-borne and vector-borne diseases as heavy rains continue to affect several parts of the country.
In a statement signed by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, the ministry cautioned that the ongoing March–April–May long rains could increase the risk of disease outbreaks if preventive measures are not taken.
The ministry noted that while the rains are vital for agriculture and replenishing water resources, they can also create conditions that expose communities to various public health threats.
“The Ministry of Health wishes to alert the public that the ongoing March–April–May long rains are expected to continue in several parts of the country,” the statement said.
Risk of Water and Mosquito-Borne Diseases
According to the ministry, heavy rainfall and flooding can contaminate water sources, disrupt sanitation systems, and create ideal breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors such as mosquitoes.
Health officials warned that this could lead to outbreaks of water-borne diseases such as:
Cholera
Typhoid fever
Other diarrhoeal illnesses caused by contaminated food or water
The ministry also cautioned that the rainy season may trigger an increase in vector-borne diseases including:
Malaria
Dengue fever
Stagnant water created by heavy rains provides ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of infection.
Additional Health Risks
Officials further warned that cold and damp conditions during the rainy season may contribute to a rise in respiratory infections, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Flood-related injuries were also listed as potential risks. These include drowning, trauma, and snake bites, which may occur during flooding incidents. Poor sanitation and waste accumulation caused by flooding may also worsen disease outbreaks if not properly managed.
Preventive Measures for the Public
To reduce health risks, the Ministry of Health has urged residents to take several preventive steps:
Boil or treat drinking water using approved methods such as chlorination
Maintain proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap
Practice safe food handling to avoid contamination
Prevent mosquito breeding by draining stagnant water around homes
Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets
Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas
Residents experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or difficulty breathing have been urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.
Government Strengthens Preparedness
The government said it has enhanced preparedness measures to deal with potential disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
According to the ministry, it is working with county governments and partners to strengthen disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and rapid response mechanisms to quickly detect and respond to public health threats.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and follow health guidelines as the long rains persist across the country.
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