The government on Friday, March 28, launched an emergency response to contain the outbreak of the mysterious Kala-azar disease in Wajir and Marsabit, which has resulted in over 20 deaths and a further 617 cases reported.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni revealed the latest development as the government aimed to contain the disease that has ravaged the North Eastern region and Baringo.
“The Ministry of Health has launched an emergency response to contain the Kala-azar outbreak in Wajir and Marsabit counties, where 617 cases have been reported,” PS Muthoni stated.
“To strengthen containment efforts, we have today flagged off three mobile laboratories equipped with molecular testing equipment, reagents, and protective gear to support early diagnosis, active case finding, and timely treatment in the most affected sub-counties,” she added.
Kala-azar, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, is fatal in over 95 per cent of untreated cases. It presents with prolonged fever, weight loss, fatigue, anaemia, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen and liver.
Currently, 106 patients are hospitalised in Wajir County, with the most affected being the county’s Level 4 hospital, where most operations have been moved. The disease has claimed 25 lives over the past three months.
The aid from the national government came at a time when the Wajir county government had acknowledged it was overwhelmed by the many cases being reported. This is after they had launched an emergency plan to contain the disease.
In response to the disease, PS Muthoni stated that the Ministry is expanding hospital capacity, providing emergency medical supplies, and conducting community sensitisation to enhance awareness and prevention.
She added that the national government, through the Treasury, is working to release funds to aid in combating the disease, which is associated with malnutrition, poor housing, and population displacement.
PS Muthoni advised Kenyans in the affected regions to ensure prevention and seek medication if they contract the disease.
“We urge the public to seek medical attention early if experiencing symptoms and to take preventive measures such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellents, and sleeping under insecticide-treated nets,” she stressed.
The disease is endemic in Kenya's Rift Valley, eastern, and north-eastern regions and was first reported in September 2024. Towards the end of January 2025, health officials in Tiaty, Baringo County, raised concerns over the rising cases of Kala-azar.
Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is the second deadliest parasitic disease in the world after malaria.
