Kala-azar Outbreak Claims 33 Lives as Cases Surpass 1,000
The death toll from the ongoing Kala-azar outbreak in Kenya’s North Eastern counties has risen to 33, with total confirmed cases reaching 1,041. In the last 24 hours alone, 16 new infections were reported, signaling a persistent threat in the region.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed the grim statistics and said that the Ministry of Health has deployed a team to collaborate with local county governments to manage the outbreak.
“We still have Kala-azar in the northeastern counties, with Wajir leading, followed by Marsabit. Already, we have 1,041 cases, and just last night, we had 16 new cases discovered. We have already lost 33 lives, which is very sad,” Muthoni said.
Mobile Labs and Medical Response
To strengthen disease surveillance and response, the ministry has deployed three mobile labs to Wajir and one to Marsabit. Support staff have also been sent to the ground to coordinate with county public health officials. Household spraying and drug distribution have been boosted by partnerships with development partners.
Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a neglected tropical disease common in arid and semi-arid areas like Wajir, Turkana, Baringo, and Garissa. The disease is transmitted by infected sandflies, tiny insects measuring between 1.5 to 3.5 millimeters in length.
Signs of Progress in Wajir
Despite the challenges, there are signs of progress. Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi expressed optimism, stating that more patients are being discharged than admitted.
“This is a clear sign of progress in our efforts, and we continue to collaborate with national health officials to ensure that we manage this disease effectively. Since the outbreak began last September, over 1,000 people have been affected by Kala-azar in the county,” said Governor Ahmed.
He also highlighted the impact of a newly established satellite blood bank, which has been instrumental in helping manage severe cases of the disease.
As efforts intensify to curb the outbreak, national and county health officials remain committed to ensuring that no more lives are lost to this preventable and treatable disease.
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Kala-azar Outbreak Claims 33 Lives as Cases Surpass 1,000