MoH issues guidelines for safety during festive season

In a statement released on Friday, December 22, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni Muriuki, outlined guidelines aimed at ensuring the well-being of Kenyans, particularly in the aftermath of the El Nino rains.

The PS acknowledged that some regions would continue to experience substantial rains, posing risks such as injuries, fatalities due to surface run-off and mudslides in hilly areas, water pollution from faecal matter and industrial waste, and challenges in accessing facilities due to damaged roads.

 “As you are aware several areas/counties were affected by the El Nino rains, though the rains have subsided the need for vigilance is important,” read the statement in part.

The Ministry stressed the need for extra precautions and provided safety tips, including avoiding crossing swollen rivers to prevent drowning and waterborne diseases. 

Additionally, PS Muriuki emphasized the importance of sanitation, hygiene practices, frequent hand washing and proper waste disposal. 

“The public is advised to avoid crossing swollen rivers and relocate from high-risk areas prone to landslides and floods. Strict adherence to sanitation and hygiene practices is crucial, including frequent hand washing and proper waste disposal. It's essential to treat drinking water before use and ensure food hygiene to prevent contamination. Immediate medical attention is recommended at the nearest health facility for symptoms of waterborne diseases or any health concerns,” stated MoH.

Addressing community events, PS Muriuki warned of potential health risks if safety measures are not observed during gatherings like weddings. 

She urged the public to remain vigilant and follow health guidelines, including refraining from consuming uninspected meat, eating meat from dead animals and practicing proper food handling hygiene.

“It should be noted that anyone hosting a ceremony should ensure adequate provision of sanitary facilities including hand washing points and latrines, observe proper hygiene when handling food; cook and serve when still hot and any leftovers MUST be stored safely and heated well before eating,” said PS Muriuki.

Furthermore, the public was reminded to treat and store drinking water safely, avoid illicit alcohol and seek immediate medical help if sick after consuming food or drink.

“In case you get sick after eating or drinking, kindly seek immediate medical help in the nearest health facility. Patients on long term drugs like HIV, TB, and Diabetes among others should ensure they have enough stock to last you over the festive season,” asserted the MoH.

For emergencies, the MoH provided a hotline number [719 or 0729471414 or 0732353535], urging the public to report any issues promptly to prevent fatalities.