Ministry of Health raises alarm over mystery illness in Kisii as 61 people affected

The Ministry of Health has raised alarm over the outbreak of an unidentified disease in South Mugirango, Kisii County, which has so far affected 61 individuals.

In a statement on Tuesday, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni stated that the affected individuals, from Amarondo, Nyabigege, and Nyangiro villages, displayed symptoms of diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain and headaches.

She added that initial tests suggest the infection's likely source is a contaminated spring, which is the main water supply for the affected villages.

“Laboratory results have confirmed the presence of bacteria commonly found in human or animal faecal matter, rendering the water unsafe for human consumption unless properly treated. Further laboratory analysis of stool samples from affected patients is ongoing to determine the specific causative agent,” said PS Muthoni.

Further, Muthoni urged local residents to follow preventive measures to stop the spread of the disease, including ensuring drinking water is safe by boiling or using chlorine treatment, storing water properly in clean, covered containers and practicing good hand hygiene, among others.

“Always use well-constructed toilets or pit latrines to prevent contamination of water sources. Seek medical attention immediately — If you or anyone in your household develops symptoms, visit the nearest health facility for prompt care,” she said.

“The Ministry of Health is taking urgent steps to contain the outbreak, including intensified public health education, water treatment interventions, and continued surveillance. We remain committed to identifying the exact cause of this outbreak and implementing measures to prevent further spread.”