TB cases among children rising in Turkana amid fight to curb spread

Turkana County is witnessing a worrying surge in tuberculosis cases, particularly among children, despite ongoing efforts to combat the disease.

Child TB cases now account for 27 per cent of infections, nearly double the levels recommended by the World Health Organisation.

The county health department reports a treatment success rate of 51 per cent among approximately 1,040 patients currently undergoing therapy, falling significantly short of the national target of 90 per cent.

County Tuberculosis and Lung Disease coordinator Dr Job Okemwa said the county, with support from partners, is intensifying screening, diagnostics and community-level interventions to reverse this troubling trend and save lives.

He said improved nutrition, counselling, expanded TB screening and thorough follow-up efforts—including contact tracing and defaulter tracking—are central to these efforts.

In a recent intervention meeting hosted with World Relief Kenya, officials revealed that a Global Fund-supported programme aims to enhance TB treatment and prevention services across Turkana.

Family health deputy director Gabriel Lopodo said severe acute malnutrition and TB treatment defaulters remain key factors fuelling the spread of tuberculosis among children, adolescents and young adults.

“Addressing malnutrition is critical because it underpins many paediatric TB cases. With proper nutrition, counselling and robust contact tracing, we can significantly reduce the transmission of TB in communities,” he said.

With support from World Relief Kenya, the county plans to establish additional TB treatment centres to facilitate timely diagnosis and care, easing the burden on Lodwar County Referral Hospital and other local health facilities.

Oliver Watsimi, World Relief’s country director, said expanding treatment sites, particularly in Turkana Central and Kalobeyei-Kakuma Refugee Camp, will strengthen intervention efforts.

Amref Health Africa’s programme coordinator Abraham Esekon said the partnership with the county has helped build a resilient health system capable of tackling these healthcare challenges head-on.

Meanwhile, Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has directed the health team to use public forums to raise awareness about TB and other health concerns.

In neighbouring Uasin Gishu county, officials are sounding the alarm over rising TB cases.

Over the past four years, reported infections have climbed from around 2,000 to nearly 3,000, underscoring the growing need for enhanced prevention and treatment efforts.

Together, these counties face a critical health challenge that demands coordinated action, improved resources and continued community engagement to protect vulnerable populations and halt the spread of tuberculosis.