Wajir County has launched an emergency response to tackle a Kala-azar outbreak that has claimed 18 lives and infected over 500 people in just three months. Currently, 106 patients remain hospitalized as health officials race against time to curb the spread of the deadly disease.
Urgent Interventions Rolled Out
Speaking on Thursday, March 21, Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed outlined a series of critical interventions aimed at controlling the outbreak. These include:
✔️ Expanding hospital capacity to accommodate rising cases
✔️ Distributing emergency medication to affected areas
✔️ Conducting mass fumigation to eliminate sandflies, the disease’s primary vector
“We have set up multiple treatment centers and deployed medical teams across the county. Our biggest challenge remains late health-seeking behavior, which has cost lives,” said Muhumed.
He also appealed for support from development partners and the national government, warning that without urgent action, the crisis could spiral out of control.
Fears of Further Spread
Health experts caution that if not contained, the outbreak could spread beyond Wajir into neighboring counties, putting thousands more at risk. They emphasize the critical need for early detection and immediate treatment to prevent further fatalities.
What is Kala-azar?
Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a deadly parasitic disease transmitted through sandfly bites. Without treatment, the disease has a fatality rate exceeding 95%.
Symptoms of Kala-azar:
🔴 Prolonged fever
🔴 Severe weight loss
🔴 Diarrhea & anemia
🔴 Skin darkening
🔴 Swollen lymph nodes
🔴 Enlarged spleen & liver
In Kenya, Kala-azar is classified as a neglected tropical disease, primarily affecting the Rift Valley, Eastern, and Northeastern regions.
As authorities rush to contain the outbreak, residents are urged to seek medical attention at the earliest signs of illness, as delayed treatment can be fatal.
