- Muthoni has urged the residents to avoid the area and instead cooperate fully with the authorities.
- Exposure, she noted, can cause immediate symptoms such as headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.
Image: MINISTRY OF HEALTH/X
The government has issued a public alert to the public following a harzadous incident in which a truck carrying sodium cyanide overturned in Kiambu.
The incident is said to have happened at Kambembe area in Rironi causing spillage of the highly toxic substance.
In a statement, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni urged the residents to avoid the area and instead cooperate fully with the authorities.
"The ministry advises the public to avoid the site of the incident and to cooperate with our emergency and disaster response teams as they work to contain the situation," she said.
According to Muthoni, the substance is extremely toxic and ingestion or inhalation of even small amounts can be fatal.
Exposure, she noted, can cause immediate symptoms such as headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.
"Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and convulsions within minutes."
Prolonged or repeated exposure to lower levels can result in long-term health issues including neurological damage, thyroid dysfunction, and cardiovascular problems, she said.
In terms of environmental hazards, the PS noted that Sodium cyanide can pose a significant threat to aquatic life.
She said any accidental release into waterways can cause extensive fish kills and long-term damage to aquatic ecosystems.
"Although sodium cyanide can degrade over time, its initial impact is often devastating," she pointed out.
Muthoni has also recommended proper personal protective equipment when handling it to prevent direct exposure.
She, however, noted that the ministry remains committed to ensuring public safety and managing the risks associated with it.
"Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available," the statement reads.