The Namayingo Health department has reported three cases of cholera in the district. According to District Health Officer Mathias Mageni, the affected individuals, as well as their probable close contacts, are currently receiving care at Bukana Health Center III in Bukana Sub County.
Mangeni explained that samples were taken from three women residing in Secho village, Sigulu Island Sub County, after they showed cholera-like symptoms, including vomiting and fevers.
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The tests confirmed that they indeed had cholera, and they were immediately isolated in their respective areas before being referred for treatment at Bukana Health Center III.
It was discovered that the first case had a recent travel history to cholera-prone areas in Western Kenya, within 10 days before the disease appeared in the community.
So far, three cases have been reported in the district, and they are being closely monitored.
Mangeni expressed concern about shortages of essential supplies required to combat cholera, including rapid diagnostic test kits, cannulas, gloves, antibiotics, oral rehydration salts, and other items.
The district is using result-based funds from Bukana Health Center III, but it’s still facing challenges in acquiring necessary resources.
Furthermore, there is a lack of isolation tents at health centers in affected communities, which include Bukana Island Sub County Health Center III, Sigulu Island Sub County Health III, Bumalenge Health Center II, and Rabachi Health II.
This absence of facilities could pose a risk of further infections if the required supplies are not promptly delivered, especially considering the communal living arrangements and open defecation practices in the affected islands.
To address the situation, Deputy Namayingo Resident District Commissioner Solomon Baleke mentioned that a dialogue meeting will be organized between the district’s local government leaders and development partners.
The meeting aims to find ways of providing support, including lunch and transport allowances, to Village Health Team-VHTs.
This support will enable them to educate the community about proper hygienic practices and risk communication effectively.
Additionally, the meeting will explore potential sources of funding to assist health assistants and inspectors with fuel, facilitating their movement through the affected areas for timely detection and treatment of cholera cases.
