Heavy rains raise fears of waterborne disease outbreak in Vihiga County

Speaking after a public sensitisation forum in Gambogi on Monday, the County Disease Surveillance Officer, Fanuel Khainga, said cases of suspected waterborne infections have already been reported in 14 wards.

He cautioned residents against swimming, washing, or making bricks in stagnant water, noting that such practices significantly increase the risk of infection.

Vihiga County Public Health Education Officer Everline Mwango urged health workers in Nyanjani to work closely with local administrators to ensure households have access to proper sanitation facilities and use them correctly.

Meanwhile, Clare Amuyunzu, who works at an NGO in the health sector, warned against the common practice of sharing washing water in a single basin before meals. She said the habit exposes individuals to infections, including those caused by intestinal worms, due to possible contamination.