Kisii County is currently facing a health crisis as a mysterious illness has affected over 200 residents in the South Mugirango region, specifically in the villages of Nyabigege, Nyamarondo, and Nyarigiro. The outbreak, which began approximately three weeks ago, presents symptoms including severe diarrhea with bloody stools, high fever, and intense headaches.

In response to the escalating situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) has deployed a team to Kisii County to assist in identifying the cause of the outbreak. Their efforts focus on assessing laboratory capacities, supporting local lab officers in disease identification, and enhancing coordination for outbreak response.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has acknowledged the outbreak, stating that emergency surveillance teams from the Ministry of Health have been dispatched to collaborate with the Kisii County Government. These teams are working to analyze collected samples and determine the disease’s origin. Muthoni emphasized the importance of national and county governments working together to address such health emergencies.

Local health facilities, including Tabaka Mission Hospital and Nyatike Level Two Hospital, are overwhelmed with patients. Kennedy Omari, the County Health Promotion Officer, reported that at least 20 additional patients have been hospitalized in recent days. Health officials are investigating water sources in the affected villages as potential causes, given the suspicion that the illness may be waterborne.

Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of clear answers, with some reporting that multiple family members are falling ill. Community members are urged to seek medical attention promptly and adhere to health advisories, such as boiling drinking water, as investigations continue into the source of the outbreak.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as more information becomes available.