Health

Isiolo on high alert after outbreak of Rift Valley Fever in Marsabit, Wajir

Participants during a joint risk assessment planning meeting to formulate a response against the Rift Valley Fever in Isiolo County on February 7, 2024. (County Press)

By Issa Hussein | Thursday, February 8, 2024

Last week, the Marsabit confirmed an outbreak of RVF in the county after four cases were reported in the region.

In response to critical indicators derived from the Rift Valley Fever (RVF) sampling conducted late last month, the Isiolo County Government held a joint risk assessment planning meeting to formulate a response against the disease.

Donor partners that participated in the meeting include Amref Health Africa in Kenya, Action Against Hunger, and Catholic Relief Services Kenya (CRS) among others.

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Dr Lawrence Mwongele the CECM for Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives who officially opened the meeting on Wednesday which was attended by various stakeholders, underscored the gravity of the situation and the commitment to reinforce intervention measures.

He said livestock vaccination was one of the crucial intervention measures to safeguard the livelihood of the community.

Mwongele commended the veterinary department for their prompt and proactive approach to vaccinating livestock against zoonotic diseases during the El Nino rains.

"The significance of this strategy is not only meant for preserving lives but also protecting the economic well-being of the county," said Mwongele.

He called for concerted efforts to undertake the necessary intervention measures to avert an outbreak of RFV.

The One Health Team drawn from the Departments of Livestock and Health respond to diseases that affect both humans and livestock.

The CECM for Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives Dr Lawrence Mwongele during the planning meeting in Isiolo County on February 7, 2024. (Photo: County Press)

Last week, the Marsabit County Government confirmed an outbreak of RVF in the county after four cases were reported in the region.

Deputy County Governor Solomon Gubo said that, out of the 43 samples sent to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), four tested positive for RVF. No fatalities were reported.

The county collected seventeen samples on January 9, 2024, from North Horr Sub-County, Saku (14), Moyale (11), and Laisamis (1).

The DG added that two other cases of the RVF were also reported in the neighbouring county of Wajir.

Acting Director General for Health said ongoing investigations had begun to identify additional cases and assess the extent of the outbreak.

"This outbreak is closely associated with the conclusion of El-Niño rains, leading to a surge in the mosquito population and an increased transmission of vector-borne diseases," said Dr. Amoth in a circular to all County Directors of Health, through the Chief Executive Officer, Council of Governors, dated January 24, 2024.

Dr Amoth has advised all counties to remain on high alert for the potential spread of RVF, given the reported increase in mosquito population nationwide and the movement of livestock.

Amoth also urged public health workers to use protective equipment such as gloves and gowns when assisting with animal births, avoid handling and consumption of uninspected meat, and use insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent mosquito bites.

He has also asked Kenyans experiencing fever to report to the nearest health facility for assessment.

"The Ministry of Health is working closely with the Directorate of Veterinary Services to monitor the situation and will update the public accordingly," he said.