MoH issues health safety tips for heavy rains

Kenyans urged to consult a doctor and seek medical advice if unwell

In Summary

•"Keep your hands clean. Wash them frequently with soap and water," MoH said.

•The public is further advised to handle their meals safely by avoiding flood-contaminated food.

Residents try to wade through a flooded Bamburi-Kiembeni road on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Residents try to wade through a flooded Bamburi-Kiembeni road on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Image: FILE

The Ministry of Health has issued safety measures to the public during the ongoing heavy rains.

Through their X account on Tuesday, they advised the public to avoid floodwater and flooded areas to help keep them away from infections.

"Keep your hands clean. Wash them frequently with soap and water," MoH said.

They also asked people to drink safe water by boiling or disinfecting it before use.

To protect yourself from insects during this season, MoH encouraged the use of nets, repellents and cover-ups.

"Monitor your health and seek help for unusual symptoms," they encouraged.

The public is further advised to handle their meals safely by avoiding flood water-contaminated food.

"Consult a doctor and seek medical advice if unwell.You should also stay informed by following local health advisories," MoH added.

This comes after the ministry on November 22 warned the public to be vigilant due to health risks associated with the ongoing heavy rains.

Public Health PS Mary Muthoni called on the public to adhere to sanitation and hygiene practices which include frequent hand washing and proper waste disposal.

She warned that the ongoing rains present potential health hazards such as injuries and fatalities due to surface run-off and mudslides, particularly in hilly areas.

Muthoni further warned of the possibility of inaccessibility of health facilities caused by floodwaters and damaged roads among other infrastructure, impacting the delivery of crucial healthcare services.

“The current situation presents potential health hazards, including challenges in nutrition due to flooding disrupting food production and submerging crops, potentially leading to reduced food availability and dietary diversity,” Muthoni said.

The ministry in collaboration with county governments and partners activated the national Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and County Emergency Operation Centres.

They are actively conducting rapid needs assessments and delivering essential assistance to the affected communities.

As part of proactive preparedness measures, WHO had previously strategically positioned critical medical resources in 14 high-risk counties.

This essential stockpile includes emergency medical kits, Cholera kits, durable tents and beds and vital nutrition supplies such as ready-to-use therapeutic foods and nourishing milk for children.

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