The Ministry of Health is probing the possible emergence of a mysterious illness that has reportedly claimed four lives in Mombasa. The cases were reported in the Migadini area, prompting concern among residents and health authorities.
According to the Ministry, the initial reports were received from the Mombasa County Department of Health, which cited four deaths under unclear circumstances.
In response, the department immediately deployed a team of investigators to the affected area to assess the situation and engage the local community.
While no evidence of an infectious disease has been confirmed at this stage, the Ministry has issued precautionary directives to the public. Residents have been urged to cooperate with community health promoters, leaders, and local organisations by reporting any cases of missing persons or suspicious deaths.
Additionally, the public has been advised to avoid handling human remains, maintain high levels of personal hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap or the use of alcohol-based sanitisers, and seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell.
According to residents, the victims were found dead in their homes. Their bodies displayed abnormal characteristics, such as boil-like sores, darkened skin that appeared burnt and was peeling, and a foul odour.
According to the government, the four reported deaths occurred between July 9 and July 14, 2025. Health officials have identified all the deceased and provided preliminary details on each case.
On July 9, a 91-year-old woman died at home. Community members reported that, in addition to her advanced age, she had been living with an unspecified chronic illness.
On July 14, three more bodies were discovered. A 57-year-old man was found dead in his house; he had been undergoing follow-up treatment for multiple chronic conditions at Port-Reitz Sub-County Hospital.
On the same day, a 69-year-old man was found deceased in his home, with his body in the early stages of decomposition. Reports indicated he was asthmatic.
Also on July 14, a 55-year-old man was found dead at home, similarly in early decomposition. He had a history of chronic illnesses and had recently been treated for dengue fever.
The Ministry emphasised that, while these deaths are concerning, initial findings do not suggest an outbreak of an infectious disease. Investigations are ongoing, and officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
