Health Officials Report Increase in Dengue Cases

Health authorities in Mombasa County have issued an alert after diagnosing 150 dengue fever cases, raising fears of a potentially serious outbreak. The County Health Chief Officer, Dr. Khadija Shikely, revealed that all six of Mombasa’s sub-counties are already reporting infections.
Officials say that the surge is being fueled by persistent flooding and stagnant water—ideal breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that transmits dengue. These conditions have made it difficult to control mosquito populations, with health workers warning that more cases may be detected in the coming weeks.
The county government has responded with intensified measures: fogging in affected areas, public education campaigns on how to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and urging households to cover water containers. Health teams are also encouraging residents to seek immediate medical care if they develop high fever, rash, or severe headaches—classic symptoms of dengue.
Experts also point to climate change as a contributing factor. According to a recent government climate-and-health strategy report, warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are expected to make Aedes mosquitoes more prolific, potentially increasing dengue risk across the country.