The Kisumu County Health Department has issued a stern warning to residents, urging them to adhere to cholera prevention guidelines following the recent outbreak in the region. Seventeen individuals were arrested last week for failing to comply with the ministry’s directives aimed at curbing the spread of the disease.

Kisumu County Health Executive Dr. Gregory Ganda confirmed that three cases of cholera had been reported in the past week, particularly in the city and informal settlements. “Last week, we recorded three cholera cases within Kisumu City and surrounding informal settlements. Initially, we thought the outbreak was limited to Nyando, but it has now reached the heart of Kisumu,” Dr. Ganda explained.

He further stated, “Last week, we arrested 17 individuals for disregarding preventive measures against the spread of cholera in Kisumu.”

In an interview with Radio 47 from his Kisumu office, Dr. Ganda urged residents to prioritize hygiene while the ministry continues its efforts to contain the outbreak. He emphasized that the temporary closure of Kibuye Market was a crucial step in preventing further infections, assuring traders that the market would soon be reopened once thorough cleaning and disinfection procedures were completed.

“We urge Kisumu residents to observe proper hygiene, consume well-cooked food, and avoid street food. Our teams are conducting public awareness campaigns in Nyando and Muhoroni to educate residents on cholera prevention,” he stressed.

Dr. Ganda also reassured traders at Kibuye Market, saying, “We ask traders to remain patient. The market will be reopened soon after the cleaning and disinfection processes are completed.”

Residents and business owners are urged to take responsibility and follow preventive measures as concerns grow over the cholera outbreak in Kisumu County.

Written by, Laban Shikokoti