Ministry unveils new disease alert system
Photo/FILE
Public Health and Sanitation minister Beth Mugo and Permanent Secretary Mark Bor during a past function in Nairobi on November 10, 2010.
The Public Health and Sanitation ministry will now be able to detect and monitor disease outbreaks and patterns in the country faster, thanks to a new web-based reporting system.
Public Health and Sanitation permanent secretary Mark Bor said the current paper-based system was inaccurate and affected response times.
“This will enable real-time monitoring, facilitating prompt response to any alerts,” Mr Bor said.
Early detection
The ministry got 250 smartphones for its offices countrywide, while its website will be used to monitor disease patterns and outbreaks.
“Early detection, recording and timely reporting of diseases is critical for rapid and targeted response,” Mr Bor said.
He stressed the importance of strengthening disease-watch procedures as Kenya is an international destination and transit hub for international travellers and cargo.
He further said Kenya was exposed to direct importation of communicable diseases from neighbouring countries with weak health systems due to civil and political instability.
