Government Strengthens Health Preparedness Amid Ongoing Long Rains

The national government has intensified preparedness measures to address potential health risks associated with the ongoing long rains, with a focus on preventing outbreaks of waterborne diseases and protecting vulnerable communities across the country.

Speaking during the Hagaria Show on Inooro FM on Friday morning, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni said the Ministry of Health (Kenya) has put in place a series of interventions to mitigate the impact of flooding and safeguard public health.

Muthoni noted that the ministry is working closely with county governments and development partners to strengthen response systems and ensure that any potential disease outbreaks are detected and managed quickly.

“We are closely monitoring the health risks that often accompany the long rains. Our focus is on strengthening coordination with county governments, enhancing disease surveillance systems, and ensuring rapid response mechanisms are in place,” she said.

According to the Principal Secretary, the ministry has activated the national Emergency Operations Centre to support timely response to emergencies that may arise due to heavy rainfall and flooding in different parts of the country.

She warned that the rainy season often leads to an increase in diseases such as Cholera, Typhoid fever, and Malaria, particularly in areas where sanitation and access to clean water are compromised.

Muthoni urged Kenyans to adopt preventive measures to protect themselves and their families from infections during the rainy period.

“We encourage members of the public to practice regular hand washing, boil drinking water, maintain proper waste management, and seek medical attention early whenever they experience symptoms of illness,” she said.

She also emphasized the crucial role played by Community Health Promoters in strengthening grassroots health education. According to the PS, these community-based workers are helping deliver household-level awareness on hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention.

“Community Health Promoters are essential in our public health system. They help educate families at the household level on proper hygiene practices and how to prevent common illnesses, especially during high-risk seasons like this,” Muthoni explained.

During the radio discussion, the Principal Secretary also provided updates on reforms in the country’s healthcare financing system through the Social Health Authority.

She said the authority is expanding access to healthcare services across the country by enabling more Kenyans—particularly vulnerable and marginalized populations—to access affordable premiums and comprehensive health coverage.

“The Social Health Authority is playing a critical role in ensuring that more Kenyans can access healthcare without facing financial hardship. We are committed to strengthening universal health coverage so that no one is left behind,” she said.

The government continues to urge communities to remain vigilant during the rainy season while working together with health authorities to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain safe and healthy living conditions across the country.