Kenya steps up national cholera preparedness and response including in Migori

Kenya Strengthens National Cholera Preparedness and Response
Kenya is stepping up cholera outbreak preparedness and response during the long rainy season, particularly in Nairobi, Kisumu, Migori, and Kwale counties, which have reported a cholera outbreak since late February 2025.
Current Situation
256 suspected cases and 13 deaths reported.
Case fatality rate (CFR): 5.2%, higher than the 1% threshold, signaling urgent need for effective treatment.
Response Measures
Rapid response teams deployed to support:
Active case finding
Contact tracing
Case investigation and management
Water sampling and laboratory diagnosis
WHO delivered cholera kits to:
Nairobi: Enough to treat 1,100 mild and severe cases
Migori: 500 kits
Kits include medicines, treatment supplies, RDTs, lab materials, protective gowns, and water testing kits
Community and Health System Interventions
Rapid diagnostic tests deployed to all sub-counties in Nairobi.
Laboratory commodities sent to Level 5 hospitals for improved patient care.
WHO deployed five public health experts to Nairobi to strengthen outbreak management.
Community efforts include:
Raising awareness
Distributing water purification tablets
Ensuring food vendors comply with health standards
Capacity Building
In 2024, 120 frontline health workers in Kajiado, Lamu, and Tana River counties were trained in cholera management, infection prevention, surveillance, and case management.
Training included hands-on exercises in establishing and operating cholera treatment units, including tents for emergency deployment.
Health facilities were mapped for potential repurposing as cholera treatment centers.
Patient Recovery Highlight
Esther Caroline Ndunta, a 62-year-old from Ruai Kasarani, Nairobi, recovered fully after prompt treatment, showcasing the impact of rapid response and community follow-up.
Key Message
Kenya’s strengthened cholera preparedness emphasizes community engagement, rapid case management, and health system readiness to control outbreaks effectively.