Garissa County has confirmed a case of cholera in one of the county's township sub-counties.
A situation report released by the county’s Department of Health on Thursday said the case involves an 11-year-old child from Dekaburey village in Iftin ward.
The matter has triggered an emergency public health response by the Garissa County Government to prevent further spread.
The infection was confirmed through laboratory culture on March 25, 2026, at Iftin Sub-County Hospital, days after the patient first presented with symptoms.
According to the report, the child developed acute watery diarrhoea and vomiting on March 22, 2026, and sought treatment the same day.
A rapid diagnostic test returned positive for Vibrio cholerae, prompting immediate isolation and management as a suspected cholera case before laboratory confirmation.
The patient remains admitted at the facility and is in stable condition, with no signs of dehydration and other health complications.
Garissa County Health Department said there have been no further episodes of diarrhoea or vomiting in the past 48 hours, indicating clinical improvement.
It noted that the patient has no recent travel history, raising concerns about possible local transmission of the disease within the community.
The county government said it has activated its public health emergency operations centre to coordinate outbreak response efforts, including surveillance, contact tracing, and case management.
“Infection prevention and control measures have also been reinforced at the health facility.”
The devolved unit said public health teams have initiated community sensitisation campaigns focusing on hygiene and sanitation.
Assessments of water and sanitation conditions are underway in affected areas, the health department noted.
“The situation remains under control, but vigilance is critical to prevent escalation.”
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.
