Cholera claims another victim in Migori County as disease spreads

Cholera killed another person in Migori Town Friday, bringing to four those who have died in Migori County this week.

The latest victim is a woman, who died on arrival at the Migori county referral hospital.

Medical Superintendent Nalwa Wafula said the woman was brought “too late”.

“We urge the public to bring patients immediately they see the signs,” Dr Wafula said.

Four children from Oruba Estate in the town are fighting for their lives. Doctors said their condition was “fairly stable”.

At least 27 people have died of cholera in the county since January.

Health director Joel Gondi said water treatment chemicals were being distributed.

“However, some people still continue drinking untreated water,” he said.

The disease has spread to Suna East and Kuria West sub-counties.

GOLDMINES CLOSED

County Commissioner Ann Ngetich said gold mines were being closed in Nyatike where the disease is rampant.

The outbreak started in Rongo, Nyatike and Suna West.

Most open air markets in the affected areas have been closed but a shortage of clean water is hampering efforts to fight the disease.

There are fears the disease might spread to Homa Bay, Isiolo and Kisumu counties.

In Kisumu, health workers are distributing water treatment chemicals.

Health executive Elizabeth Ogaja said a person died and 30 others were admitted to hospitals last week.

In Homa Bay, eight people are being treated for the disease.

In Isiolo County, the water and sewerage company has joined forces with the Ministry of Health to fight cholera following the death of one person on Tuesday.

Another seven are being treated at the Isiolo public hospital.

The firm’s finance manager, Mr Nura Bonaya, said Friday water was being constantly tested.

“Some people are releasing dirty water from bathrooms into the streets, putting the health of other residents at risk,” said Mr Bonaya.

Additional reporting by Vivian Jebet