Kisii County is grappling with a health crisis as a mysterious illness spreads across South Mugirango, affecting over 200 residents in Nyabigege, Nyamarondo and Nyarigiro villages. 

The afflicted individuals are experiencing severe diarrhea with bloody stools, high fever and intense headaches, prompting urgent intervention from health authorities.

Senator Richard Onyonka has called for immediate action, urging the Ministry of Health and Kisii County Government to accelerate testing and deploy additional medical personnel. 

Preliminary assessments suggest the illness may be waterborne, linked to contaminated water sources, with samples currently undergoing analysis.

The outbreak has overwhelmed local health facilities, with at least 20 more patients hospitalized in recent days. Health officials, including teams from Nairobi, have launched a fact-finding mission in Amarongo village to investigate water sources as a potential cause.

County Health Promotion Officer Kennedy Omari confirmed that efforts are ongoing to transport affected individuals to hospitals for treatment. Some patients, like 60-year-old John Obara, are showing signs of recovery, but many remain in critical condition.

Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of clear answers, demanding expedited investigations. “We keep going to the hospital, but no one knows what is afflicting us,” lamented Eunice Ombasa, a South Mugirango resident.

Senator Onyonka has emphasized the need for long-term water safety measures and consistent updates from health officials to ensure transparency in addressing the crisis. Authorities remain on high alert as investigations continue.

Written by Linah Towett