A severe cholera outbreak has been reported in Kiambu County after several residents were rushed to the Kiambu Referral Hospital showing symptoms of the fatal waterborne disease.
Preliminary investigations traced the outbreak to a popular eatery near a popular supermarket located along Kiambu Road, where contaminated food and water were suspected to be the source.
According to Doctor Japheth Kamau, a lead physician at the Kiambu Referral Hospital, by Saturday, March 29, in the afternoon, he had treated at least 63 cases but expressed fears that the number could rise.
"Most patients reported eating at the same food kiosk in the past 48 hours. We’re seeing severe dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate treatment is critical,” said Kamau.
Among those diagnosed with the disease was a woman with three children who reportedly collapsed at her home after eating chips and chicken she bought from the eatery.
"I started feeling dizzy, then the stomach pains hit me like a storm," commented the middle-aged woman, who spoke while lying on her hospital bed.
Another victim was a boda boda rider from Ndenderu in Limuru who contracted the disease after consuming tea and mandazi from a food outlet.
"I took tea and mandazi there yesterday. Now I cannot even stand straight,” narrated the boda rider, who spoke while clutching his stomach in pain.
While commenting on the incident, a female trader revealed that the cholera outbreak had brought fear among the residents. "I sell vegetables near that place. If this is cholera, many more could fall sick," she said.
County health officials have since visited the eatery and ordered an immediate shutdown to pave the way for inspection. Meanwhile, residents have since been urged to boil water, avoid street food, and seek immediate care if symptoms arise.
"We’re conducting tests, but early signs point to contaminated water supply," confirmed Kiambu Public Health Officer Japheth Muthoni.
This is not the first time Kiambu County has recorded an outbreak of cholera. In 2023, Kiambu County recorded 344 cholera cases, which resulted in the deaths of several people.
Initial symptoms of the infection include watery diarrhoea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, loss of skin elasticity, dry mucous membranes, low blood pressure, thirst, muscle cramps, and restlessness or irritability.
