Turkana alert following cholera outbreak in South Sudan

Turkana County has intensified surveillance along the Kenya–South Sudan border to contain the spread of cholera reported in the Kalobeyei settlement within the Kakuma refugee camp.

According to Dr Joseph Epem, the Executive Committee Member in charge of Health and Sanitation, the area has witnessed increased cases of cholera in the recent past.

Dr Epem confirmed that the outbreak originated in neighbouring South Sudan, where health officials have reported at least 172 deaths linked to the disease within one week.

"In response to the outbreak, we have banned food hawking around the Kakuma refugee camp and Kalobeyei settlement to minimise the risk of further transmission," Epem stated.

To enhance containment measures, the health department has held consultative meetings with key health partners, including the International Rescue Committee (IRC), UNICEF, and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

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These organisations will coordinate a rapid response initiative, primarily focusing on the Kalobeyei settlement, which is currently the epicentre of the outbreak in Turkana West.

“The priority is to establish a strategic response framework that includes border surveillance, contact tracing, and emergency preparedness,” Epem added.

Bonaventure Ameyo, the County Deputy Director for Medical Services, confirmed that both county and sub-county health facilities have been activated to handle any emerging cases.

“Our rapid response plan will focus on coordination and surveillance, particularly in identifying hotspots and entry points,” Dr Ameyo stated.

“We are also working on increasing public awareness, risk communication, case management, laboratory testing, and infection prevention through improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices.”

According to health officials, the first cholera case in Kalobeyei was reported on May 18, 2025, with the patient admitted to the Amusai Health Facility.

So far, there have been nine confirmed cases: three from Natukobenyo and six from Amusai.

Of these, six patients have been treated and sent home, while three remain under medical care.

Additionally, four new cases have been reported and are currently being treated, with several others under close observation as surveillance teams monitor potential exposures.

The County Department of Health urged residents, particularly those in refugee camps and near the border, to maintain strict hygiene practices, report any symptoms immediately, and avoid food from unregulated vendors.

Meanwhile, Dr Epem has expressed concerns about a spike in malaria cases across the county but reassured residents that the department has secured enough medication to manage the situation.