The Fight Against Cholera in Nakuru, Kenya: Enhanced Preparedness with VAN Project Aid

Nakuru County has faced cholera outbreaks in the past, notably in 2015 and 2022, when a total of 394 cases and 17 deaths were reported. Despite these challenges, the county has consistently prioritised preparedness and preventive measures to combat this persistent public health threat.

With the recent increase in rainfall, the risk of waterborne diseases has surged. On August 30, 2023, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, through the Kenya Meteorological Department, released the Climate Outlook for the October-November-December (OND) 2023 “Short Rains” season. The report indicated that the entire country, particularly the eastern zone, would likely experience enhanced rainfall. In response, the County Government of Nakuru developed El – Nino Preparedness and Response Plan to tackle the anticipated challenges, including the increased likelihood of waterborne diseases such as cholera due to potential contamination of drinking water sources by floods.

In December 2023, Population Services Kenya, under the VAN Project, secured dedicated funding to bolster cholera disease preparedness and response in Nakuru County. The inaugural cholera preparedness and response meeting was held on January 12, 2024, with attendance by members of the health management team from both county and sub-county levels. The meeting focused on sanitation and preventive measures necessary to control the transmission of cholera. Key strategies discussed included vaccinating food handlers, developing policies for public toilets, and ensuring food sanitation – especially in schools, among fruit vendors, and in general nutrition in the county. The establishment of food labs in the county was also emphasised. High-risk sub-counties identified included Nakuru West, Nakuru East, Rongai, Naivasha, Nakuru North, Gilgil and Molo.

The VAN project further supported the training of food handlers and community health promoters focusing on food safety and cholera prevention. Training sessions covered the causes and transmission of cholera, proper hand-washing procedures, the effects of the disease, and preventive measures. These trainings took place in Nakuru East, Rongai, and Naivasha sub-counties. Additionally, Population Services Kenya utilised integrated outreach activities to raise cholera awareness in schools, flower farms and at the community level.

To further enhance public awareness, Population Services Kenya, under the VAN project, launched an extensive cholera prevention campaign. This included distributing fliers and posters strategically placed throughout the high-risk areas. Recognising the power of digital media, the campaign, dubbed “Pinga Cholera” ,” was promoted on PS Kenya’s social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. By March 2024, these platforms had reached an audience of 220,492 people.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts between Population Services Kenya’s VAN Project and the Nakuru County health management teams have significantly strengthened cholera preparedness and response measures. The implementation of comprehensive strategies, such as sanitation initiatives, training programmes, and community outreaches, has enabled the county to take proactive steps to mitigate the risk of cholera outbreaks, especially in high-risk areas. The effective use of digital media has further enhanced public awareness and engagement in cholera prevention efforts. Continued investment and commitment to these initiatives will be essential in safeguarding the health and well-being of Nakuru County residents against cholera and other waterborne diseases.

Story by Tonny Wambua, Population Services Kenya.