The Kiambu County government has purchased medical supplies worth over Sh2.5 million for Cholera management after an outbreak that has so far claimed five lives. Over 45 people are still undergoing treatment in various hospitals across the county. Area County Executive in-charge of Health Dr. Johan Mwangi on Friday revealed that 31 cases of diarrhoea related illnesses were reported at the Thika Level Five Hospital from Kiandutu and Gachagi slums but one succumbed to the disease immediately after admission. In Juja Sub-County, seven cases of cholera were reported and three of the patients died upon admission. Three cases were reported in Ruiru Sub-County with one dying while undergoing treatment. The four Cholera patients at Gatundu North Sub-County are still undergoing treatment at Igegania Sub-District Hospital. Dr. Mwangi said food hawking has been banned in the county until the pandemic is controlled. Meanwhile, public health officers have been dispatched to the field to educate people on water treatment and general hygiene. Where there is no piped water, treatment kits are being issued for free. He pointed out that a ward has been set aside in all Sub-County Hospitals to deal with Cholera related illnesses. He called on every person who experiences diarrhoea to urgently report to the nearest hospital for treatment. Dr. Mwangi said that the pandemic was as a result of the recent rainfall that has caused toilets to overflow and mix with drinking water. “The problem is, however, under control and we are certain that no more cases will be recorded,” he assured. Speaking in his office, the CEC said that Public Health Officers were on high alert and are working in liaison with county enforcement officers to arrest food hawkers who are contravening the ban. He said scouts have also been dispatched to all the major markets within the county to ensure that proper waste disposal was adhered to. According to the County Public Health Officer, Mr Ferdinand Milliano, already over 60 food hawkers have been apprehended and arraigned before court and very hefty fines slapped on them to serve as a deterrent measure.

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