Marsabit, Wajir, and Samburu counties in northern Kenya have reported a notable increase in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases in early 2025, raising public health concerns. Marsabit County recorded 227 suspected cases between November 2024 and March 2025, with the majority of patients being children and male pastoralists. Wajir County reported 413 suspected cases by early March, including 11 deaths, all of whom were children under eight. Samburu County confirmed its first case in mid-January, prompting swift referral of patients to Isiolo County Teaching and Referral Hospital. Health authorities emphasized that all confirmed cases received appropriate treatment.
The surge prompted a coordinated investigation led by the Ministry of Health alongside WHO, KEMRI, Amref Health Africa, and the Kenya Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP). Teams conducted hospital record reviews, case investigations, laboratory testing, and assessed county-level preparedness. Efforts included fumigation of households, distribution of test kits, and intensive on-the-job training for healthcare workers to strengthen early detection and management of VL. Confirmatory diagnosis relied on rK-39 and DAT tests, with some cases treated based on clinical assessment.
Local health officials and partners have called for heightened public awareness and continued vigilance, particularly in pastoralist communities that are highly vulnerable due to environmental exposure. Authorities stressed that timely treatment, preventive measures, and community education remain critical to reducing the spread and fatality of the disease. They also encouraged reporting of suspected cases to health facilities to ensure prompt intervention and containment.