The pharmacy manager at Mater Hospital has been tasked to ensure the facility has enough stock of ORS, IV fluids and antibiotics as the country battles a cholera outbreak.
A memo dated February 15 from the Director of medical services at the hospital, Kevin Rombosia, to all staff further directed that appropriate isolation wards for cholera patients be prepared in case of admissions.
The measures follow a confirmation by the Ministry of Health of an outbreak of the disease in 15 counties, including Nairobi.
“To this effect, we are strongly reminded to remain alert while in our communities of residence as well as when in the hospital,” Rombosia said.
“Watch out for patients presenting with watery diarrhea of acute onset and observe strict handwashing and safe water practices,” he added.
Last week, the Ministry of Health confirmed that 83 patients have succumbed to the cholera outbreak since the first case was reported in the country in October last year.
CS Susan Wafula said 15 counties have reported the outbreak with 4,566 patients having been recorded.
The CS who spoke during the official launch of the first ever cholera vaccine in Tana River county noted that even though the counties have successfully controlled the outbreak, there is need for them to maintain high vigilance.
Cholera infection is often mild or without symptoms, but can be severe.
A person can get cholera by drinking water or eating food contaminated with cholera bacteria.
The disease can spread rapidly in areas with inadequate treatment of sewage and drinking water.
