The County Government of Uasin Gishu, through its Department of Health Services, has strategized on surveillance, advocacy and social mobilization for the anticipated El Niño rains.
A meeting held on Monday sought to constitute the County Disaster Management Committee, and lay down strategies in anticipation, surveillance and dealing with any eventualities, including evacuation.
Flooding, water-bone diseases, landslides and heavy surface run offs are some of the issues expected to come along with the rains, projected to last until December.
Speaking during the meeting, County Executive for Health Services, Executive Dr Sam Kotut emphasized the importance of addressing public health issues that may arise due to the heavy rains noting that many areas mighty experience potential outbreak of cholera and diarrhea-related diseases.
“These waterborne illnesses can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and contaminated water sources, therefore, the need to implement preventive measures such as water treatment and increased awareness campaigns to mitigate the impact of these diseases,” said Dr Kotut.
Vector-borne diseases
He also said that the rains will come with increased risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, pneumonia, and asthma because of the high humidity and stagnant water that often accompanies heavy rainfall, the breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects multiply.
Chief Officers Dr Joyce Sang (Promotive and Preventive Health) and Dr Paul Wangwe (Clinical Services) said that heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods and slope failures, posing a threat to human lives and infrastructure.
They said the department has identified and mapped areas prone to flooding and landslides, as well as establishing emergency response teams to promptly address any incidents that may occur.
The meeting also highlighted the need for enhanced sexual and reproductive health education because during times of disaster, there is often a rise in unprotected sexual activities, leading to an increase in sexually transmitted infections and gender-based violence.
Uasin Gishu is among counties expected to receive more than average rainfall for the next four months according to a forecast by the Meteorological Department.
