Marsabit prepares for disease outbreaks ahead of expected El Niño rains

By Samuel Kosgei

The Marsabit County Department of Health has put in place measures to respond to diseases that could emerge following the expected El Niño rains next month.

Speaking to this station, Marsabit County Executive for Health Malicha Boru said heavy rains are often associated with outbreaks of various diseases, particularly due to contamination of drinking water sources.

He said the anticipated diseases include malaria, cholera and Rift Valley fever, among others.

Malicha said the county government has already ordered medicines to respond to possible disease outbreaks, with the supplies expected to arrive within the next two weeks.

He added that the county government will work with its partners as part of preparations to mitigate the possible effects of the rains, which are expected between October and December.

Meanwhile, speaking yesterday in Moyale, the Director of the Meteorological Department for Marsabit and Isiolo counties, John Nguyo, said different parts of Marsabit County are expected to receive the rains at different times.

Nguyo said areas in Saku and Moyale are expected to start receiving the rains between the first and third weeks of October, while the onset is expected to be delayed slightly in North Horr.

The county health department says preparations are aimed at ensuring that health facilities are ready to respond to any disease outbreaks associated with the expected rains.