MOH Intensifies Efforts to Contain Mysterious Disease Outbreak in South Mugirango
TSA | March 5, 2025 | Health, Kisii
The Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with Kisii County health officials and other key stakeholders, has launched an urgent response to contain the outbreak of a mysterious disease that has affected residents in South Mugirango Constituency, Kisii County.
In a press statement released to newsrooms, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed that the Ministry had been alerted to the outbreak, which has so far resulted in 61 reported cases across several villages in the constituency.
“The Ministry has activated a rapid response team that is conducting case line listing, contact tracing, and active case finding to curb the spread of the illness,” said PS Muthoni.
Suspected Source of Infection Identified
Initial preliminary tests have pointed to a contaminated spring—the main water source for the affected villages—as the likely cause of the outbreak. Health officials are conducting further investigations to confirm the exact source and nature of the disease.
In the meantime, the Ministry is urging residents to take precautionary measures to protect themselves and prevent further infections.
Health Advisory for Residents
In light of the outbreak, MOH has issued a series of preventive guidelines for residents in the affected areas:
- Ensure drinking water is safe by boiling, treating, or using bottled water.
- Proper storage of drinking water to prevent contamination.
- Practice good hand hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water.
- Use well-constructed sanitation facilities and avoid open defecation.
PS Muthoni reassured the public that the Ministry is fully committed to identifying the exact cause of the outbreak, managing infections, and implementing long-term solutions to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“We remain dedicated to ensuring the health and safety of all affected communities by taking swift action to contain this outbreak and prevent further spread,” she emphasized.
Government Response and Next Steps
To effectively contain and manage the outbreak, MOH has deployed a multidisciplinary team comprising public health experts, epidemiologists, and disease surveillance officers to South Mugirango. The team will:
- Conduct water quality tests to assess contamination levels.
- Strengthen case surveillance and reporting systems for early detection of new infections.
- Provide medical care and supportive treatment to affected individuals.
- Sensitize the community on hygiene and sanitation practices to mitigate further transmission.
Additionally, local health facilities have been placed on high alert, and an emergency response unit has been mobilized to assist in the containment efforts.
Residents Urged to Report Symptoms Promptly
The Ministry has also called on residents to be vigilant and report any symptoms associated with the illness to the nearest health facility or community health volunteers for immediate medical attention.
The government is working closely with public health officers, local leaders, and other health partners to ensure the situation is brought under control as swiftly as possible.
As investigations continue, the Ministry is expected to provide regular updates and take further actions based on scientific findings and expert recommendations.
MOH Intensifies Efforts to Contain Mysterious Disease Outbreak in South Mugirango
