The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has expressed fear over the rise of diarrhea cases in some of the counties that are already facing water shortage crisis, and has therefore warned that this trend can lead to a major public health risk.
Besides highlighting the concerns, KMA President Dr. Simon Kigondu at the launch of joint intervention initiative, stated that government had done great work in drastically reducing the number of diarrhea infections after the COVID-19 pandemic; however, recent data show a worrying scenario especially in the pockets of poverty.
In an effort to solve this crisis, KMA has partnered with Reckitt East Africa and other health stakeholders to conduct community-based campaigns aimed at identifying and helping the most affected counties.
Apart from the major places where the risk of infection is high such as schools and healthcare facilities, the program will also be rolled out in communities.
According to Dr. Kigondu, the duopoly will not only exit public awareness campaigns, advocate hygienic practices, and provide necessary handwashing materials but also relentlessly promote hygiene practices especially in the areas where there is very limited access to clean water.
However, health experts warn that poor sanitation and use of unsafe water sources are the most important factors of diarrhea disease transmission.
