Residents of Makongeni, Kiganjo, Kiang'ombe, Kamenu and other surrounding areas in Thika have been asked to be vigilant to avoid disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
Speaking at Makongeni chief's camp on Wednesday during a public sensitisation meeting, Thika West Public Health Officer (PHO) Dr Austine Miliano said that residents must be careful to cushion themselves from waterborne diseases.
"For the next few weeks or months, sanitation in this area will not be the same due to the rains that are being experienced in the area. We therefore would like residents to be wary of the water they drink, the food they eat and maintain the highest hygiene possible,” said Miliano.
He also asked parents and teachers not to allow children to go out on their own unattended when at home and school respectively to prevent them from playing in stagnant water as it is a huge health risk.
At the same time, he asked residents to acquire mosquito nets from the nearest public health facilities in a bid to protect themselves from malaria.
"Malaria infections are likely to go high during this period due to stagnant water. Acquiring mosquito nets should now be a priority,” he said.