Residents in Yatta, Machakos County have been advised to maintain hygiene in a bid to keep cholera at bay.
Speaking on Tuesday in Kithimani, Yatta sub-county public health officer Patrick Muiruri said that out of the 27 cases of patients admitted with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms, only seven were confirmed to be cholera.
He said that one person succumbed to the disease due to delay in seeking medical attention.
"So far 27 cases have been reported but only seven have been confirmed to be cholera. All stakeholders should play their part in ensuring this menace is contained," said Muiruri.
Mr Muiruri said the six patients are receiving treatment in isolated wards at Matuu Level Four Hospital.
He said the outbreak is as a result of residents consuming contaminated water, following heavy rainfall that is being experienced in the region.
Yatta Deputy County Commissioner Edwin Chabari said that the national and county government have put in place measures to ensure zero transmission of the disease.
He urged residents to drink boiled water and ensure they use clean toilets. Chabari also asked hotel and bar owners to maintain high levels of hygiene.
On her part, Machakos County Commissioner Matilda Sakwa said emergency teams have been mobilised to sensitise residents on how to prevent the disease.
She noted that water from Thika River and the Yatta canal has been contaminated and also cautioned residents against drinking bottled water from the Zania and Channia companies.