The Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding a surge in influenza cases across multiple regions of the nation, advising citizens to adopt preventive measures to contain the spread of this respiratory ailment.
In a public advisory released on Thursday, Health Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth stated that surveillance data indicates heightened influenza activity, consistent with Kenya’s seasonal flu patterns.
Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral respiratory infection that transmits easily from person to person through droplets released when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.
“Kenya is currently experiencing an increase in influenza cases in several regions of the country. This increase is consistent with Kenya’s known seasonal influenza patterns, which typically occur between late February and May, and again between July and October each year,” Dr. Amoth stated.
The Health Director further noted that data from the National Influenza Surveillance System reveals higher than average respiratory illness activity in line with these seasonal trends.
He mentioned, however, that most affected individuals are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms and recover with supportive care.
“The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely through strengthened surveillance and laboratory testing, and remains vigilant to ensure timely detection and response to any changes in disease trends,” Dr. Amoth added.
Influenza spreads rapidly in crowded settings such as schools, markets, places of worship, prisons, and public transport. Common symptoms include sudden fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, headache, muscle and joint pain, and general body weakness.
The ministry warned that certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness, including children under five years, older persons, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or weakened immunity.
To curb the spread of the virus, Dr. Amoth said the ministry has strengthened influenza surveillance across sentinel sites, advised health facilities to enhance preparedness and case management, and intensified public health communication on prevention measures.
Members of the public have been encouraged to practice regular hand hygiene, cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and wear masks if they are unwellespecially in public or around vulnerable individuals.
The ministry also advised those experiencing severe symptoms to seek medical attention promptly and urged individuals who feel unwell to stay home to prevent spreading the infection to others.
“The Ministry reassures the public that the situation is being closely monitored and that appropriate measures are in place to safeguard the health of all Kenyans,” said the Health DG.