Garissa County has confirmed a cholera case in one of its township sub-counties. The case involves an 11-year-old child from Dekaburey village in Iftin Ward, who developed symptoms of acute watery diarrhoea and vomiting on March 22, 2026.
The infection was confirmed three days later through laboratory testing at Iftin Sub-County Hospital. The patient had no recent travel history. This has raised concerns about possible local transmission of the disease within the community.
Garissa County Teaching and Referral Hospital communications chief of Press Service, Yunis Dekow, said the leading referral institution and a key pillar in advancing healthcare development in the region has initiated public awareness and response measures.
“Infection prevention and control measures have also been reinforced at our referral facility.”
The Garissa County Hospital spokesperson observed that the facility has ramped up public sensitisation campaigns, part of response efforts to mitigate the disease.
Dekow declared that the hospital has strengthened disease surveillance, emergency response, and community education to prevent further spread.
The steps being implemented, he said, are part of the health legacy projects and development manifesto of Governor Nathif Jama's legacy during his second term as Garissa Governor.
“Public health teams have been deployed to educate residents on prevention measures, including proper hygiene, safe water usage, and sanitation practices,” the Press Service Chief disclosed.
“All healthcare workers are working closely with local leaders to ensure accurate information reaches communities quickly."
He urged to remain vigilant and watch for symptoms such as severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, fatigue, and leg cramps.
Dekow emphasised the importance of promoting early medical care treatment to reduce the risk of severe illness.
“Preventive measures against the disease include drinking boiled or treated water, regular handwashing with soap, consuming well-cooked food, and avoiding raw, as well as undercooked meals,” acknowledged the head of press service.
The member of the hospital management team reiterated that maintaining clean environments is critical in stopping transmission.
Dekow asserted that the situation remains under control, with surveillance, contact tracing, and case management measures already in place.
“We call on the public to cooperate fully with health teams to contain the disease in Garissa.”
Dekow revealed that sustained public awareness and community cooperation remains key in preventing further infections and safeguarding public health.
Kenya continues to grapple with periodic outbreaks of cholera, a preventable but potentially deadly disease linked to poor sanitation, unsafe water, and limited access to hygiene services.
The illness, caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae, remains a persistent public health concern, particularly in informal settlements, arid and semi-arid regions, and areas affected by flooding and displacement.
The disease is characterised by sudden onset of profuse watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration. Without prompt treatment, severe cases can lead to death within hours.