The Ministry of Health has announced a seasonal increase in influenza infections in several parts of Kenya, while assuring the public that most cases reported so far remain mild and manageable. In an update issued on Thursday, the ministry said the rise in respiratory illness activity matches the usual flu patterns experienced in the country during certain months of the year.
According to the ministry, current surveillance data shows a growing number of influenza cases across different regions, a trend that health officials say is expected during the seasonal cycle of the disease.
“Kenya is currently experiencing a seasonal increase in influenza cases, consistent with known seasonal patterns,” the ministry said.
Health authorities explained that influenza outbreaks in Kenya commonly appear during two main periods each year. The first wave is often recorded between late February and May, while another period of increased cases is usually observed between July and October.
Despite the rise in infections, the ministry said most patients are experiencing mild to moderate illness and are recovering through routine treatment and basic medical support.
“Most cases remain mild to moderate and recover with supportive care,” the statement read in part.
The government said it is actively tracking the situation through the Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI) working together with county governments. Health officials are monitoring respiratory illnesses circulating in the country and within the wider region to ensure early response if the situation changes.
Influenza, widely known as flu, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system and spreads easily between people. Transmission occurs mainly through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus may also spread when people touch surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth.
The ministry warned that the illness can spread quickly in crowded environments where people are in close contact. Areas such as schools, markets, places of worship, prisons, and public transport systems are considered high risk for rapid transmission.
Common symptoms associated with influenza include sudden fever, dry cough, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, headaches, muscle pain, joint aches, and general body weakness.
Health experts say certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness if infected. These include children under five years of age, older persons, pregnant women, and individuals living with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or weakened immune systems.
To strengthen response efforts, the ministry said surveillance systems have been reinforced across sentinel monitoring sites in order to detect cases early and confirm infections through laboratory testing.
“The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely through strengthened surveillance and laboratory testing, and remains vigilant to ensure timely detection and response to any changes in disease trends,” the statement noted.
Health facilities across the country have also received guidance to improve preparedness by strengthening case management, improving triage systems, and maintaining strict infection prevention and control practices.
Authorities added that the ministry is working closely with county governments and health partners to track disease trends and coordinate response activities where necessary.
Members of the public have been encouraged to follow basic health measures to reduce the risk of infection. These include frequent handwashing, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with people showing flu symptoms, and wearing masks when feeling unwell or when in crowded areas.
“The public is encouraged to follow preventive measures and rely on official communication channels for updates,” the ministry added.
The Ministry of Health assured Kenyans that the situation remains under close observation and said systems are in place to protect public health as influenza cases continue to be monitored across the country.
