By Peter Gitonga
The Department for Health and Sanitation has stepped up disease surveillance and preparedness measures in Turkana County following heightened concerns over the possible cross-border spread of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) from neighbouring Ethiopia.
The intensified response comes after a high-level consultative meeting between the County government and the National Public Health Institute (NPHI), which identified Kibish Sub-county and surrounding border areas as high-risk zones due to their proximity to Omorate in Ethiopia, currently assessed as the epicentre of the outbreak. Health officials warned that frequent cross-border trade, migration, and social interaction significantly increase the risk of transmission into Turkana North.
The meeting brought together national and county health experts, development partners, and humanitarian agencies to review a recent risk assessment and align response strategies. Speaking during the meeting, Chief Officer for Medical Services Dr Gilchrist Lokoel said the County remains on high alert due to extensive population movement across porous borders.
“There is continuous interaction among communities in Kokuro, Kibish, Lapur and nearby refugee camps. These dynamics call for heightened surveillance and a rapid response system,” Dr Lokoel said.
He further noted that the County is already grappling with multiple public health challenges, including an ongoing Kala Azar outbreak that has claimed over 400 lives in the past six months, putting immense strain on limited health resources.
Surveillance and laboratory teams raised concerns over gaps in logistics, including shortages of fuel, personal protective equipment (PPE), and information, education and communication (IEC) materials required for effective community sensitisation.
NPHI team leader Peter Lokamar assured the County of continued national support, including the deployment of specialised laboratory personnel and the supply of PPEs. He confirmed that at least 50 PPE kits have already been delivered, with more expected.
Lokamar emphasised the need for sustained screening at points of entry for a minimum of 21 days, alongside additional training for healthcare workers and community health promoters.
Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Agnes Mana highlighted the heightened vulnerability of island communities along Lake Turkana, citing frequent interaction with Ethiopian communities and the need for tailored interventions for hard-to-reach areas.
Acting Director of Preventive and Promotive Health Daniel Esimit added that access routes through Kibish, Kokuro, Todonyang and Lake Turkana further expose the County to risk. He also pointed to refugee settlements such as Kakuma, home to people from over 26 countries, as potential transmission hotspots.
The meeting identified key priority areas, including surveillance, case management, risk communication, coordination, quarantine and isolation, and safe and dignified burials, while factoring in challenges posed by the ongoing rainy season.
Health authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with health workers as joint national and county teams intensify preparedness efforts to prevent a possible outbreak.
John Kariuki