WAJIR, Kenya — Wajir County has launched a comprehensive 10-day fumigation and public health campaign to combat a surge in kala-azar cases, with health officials warning that over 370 residents have already been infected. The initiative, spearheaded by the County Health Department in partnership with the Ministry of Health, includes large-scale spraying in high-risk areas, community awareness programs, and targeted medical interventions to identify and treat infected individuals. Local leaders and volunteers joined the campaign to ensure maximum reach and engagement among affected communities.
The outbreak, which has primarily affected Wajir town and its surrounding villages, has raised concerns among public health authorities due to the region’s semi-arid conditions that favor the sandfly, the disease’s main vector. County officials noted that the response follows weeks of escalating infections, with several cases reported in children and the elderly. Health teams are conducting door-to-door screenings and distributing preventive materials, while temporary treatment centers have been established to manage severe cases. This effort represents a coordinated approach to halt further spread and reduce fatalities in the county.
Residents and health practitioners have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will significantly reduce disease transmission and strengthen public health infrastructure. County Governor Mohamed Abdi highlighted the importance of community participation, emphasizing that the success of the campaign depends on vigilance, timely reporting, and adherence to preventive measures. Looking ahead, authorities plan to implement longer-term interventions, including vector control programs, improved sanitation, and health education campaigns to prevent future outbreaks. Our goal is not just to contain this current surge but to build a resilient system that protects our communities from recurring health crises, said Governor Abdi.