WHO joins team investigating unknown disease outbreak in Kisii

Medical experts are working around the clock to identify the cause of an unknown disease outbreak in South Mugirango, Kisii County.

Hundreds of residents across three villages have been treated for severe diarrhea with bloody stools, fever, and intense headaches.

An unconfirmed number of individuals have been hospitalized at Tabaka Mission Hospital, Nyatike Level Two Hospital, Prina Hospital, and Royal Hospital in Rongo, as well as other private healthcare facilities.

Officers from the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined a multi-agency team from the Ministry of Health and the county government, who have set up camp in the area since the outbreak was reported last week.

Results from samples taken are still pending. Key efforts by WHO include assessing lab capacity, supporting lab officers to identify the disease, enhancing coordination and response capacity for the outbreak.

Investigations are ongoing.