As Kenya enters the height of its cold season, health officials are reporting a noticeable uptick in respiratory illnesses across major counties, particularly Nairobi and the Rift Valley highlands. According to a statement from the Kenya Meteorological Department, conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, the flu and common colds are expected to rise due to low temperatures and increased indoor crowding. Meanwhile, Nairobi residents have described widespread symptoms—persistent coughs, runny noses and sneezing—especially during early morning commutes.
The surge is attributed partly to seasonal immune suppression, according to medical experts. Dry, chilly winds reduce the virus-fighting capacity of nasal defenses by weakening extracellular vesicles, making people more vulnerable to viral infections Pharmacists in Nairobi have echoed this trend, reporting that demand for flu-related medications has nearly doubled in recent weeks as more people fall ill.
Adding to the concern, the Kenya Meteorological Department has also issued a public health warning against using charcoal jikos (traditional stoves) in poorly ventilated homes, urging residents to warm up safely. In a recent report, the government cited several fatal carbon monoxide poisoning cases linked to indoor use of charcoal during cold spells.
The Ministry of Health has stepped in, advising high-risk groups—including young children, the elderly, and people with chronic conditions—to seek medical attention early, practice good hygiene, and ensure adequate ventilation to minimize risks
Looking ahead, health authorities are calling for more proactive measures to mitigate the seasonal impact. Longer-term interventions could include stronger surveillance of respiratory pathogens, broader public awareness campaigns on cold-weather risks, and support for cleaner, safer heating options in vulnerable communities. As Kenya braces for further cold-weather waves, balancing public safety and respiratory health is emerging as a top priority.