By MKT Correspondent
Public Health Workers in Embu County on Thursday marked this year’s World Environmental Health Day by conducting a clean-up exercise of the sprawling Shauri Slums within Embu Town.
The day is marked September 26 every year with keen focus on the importance of clean air, safe water, proper sanitation and effective waste management.
The exercise was spearheaded by the County’s Chief Officer Public Health Henry Thiga, alongside a team of health workers and community members aimed at also creating awareness on the need to maintain proper sanitation to curb spread of diseases related to poor hygiene.
He reported that 85% of diseases affecting people across the County were as a result of poor hygiene and could be avoided if cleanliness was maintained at home and in public spaces.
“Many waterborne and hygiene-related diseases can be completely eradicated if we all observe simple hygiene measures like proper waste disposal and regular cleaning,” he said.
Thiga said the initiative was part of a broader county-wide public health campaign to improve sanitation, especially in areas prone to outbreaks of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
Director, Public Health Paul Ngari urged residents, especially those living in informal settlements, to make proper use of toilets and avoid open defecation, which is a major public health concern in densely populated areas.
“Clean environments are not only a sign of dignity, but also a protective measure against preventable diseases,” Ngari said.
He further noted that slums were particularly vulnerable to sanitation-related diseases due to overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.
The health workers also used the opportunity to conduct a free medical checkup where residents were screened for ailment including hypertension and diabetes.
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Norman Mwale