Aston Lukoye
Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Sheriff Nassir has confirmed that three cases of Rotavirus have been identified among 75 cases of diarrhea reported in the county. The disease is affecting children under 18 years of age.
“We have witnessed in the recent rise in diarrhea among children below 18 years, after sample testing. We have established that there is Rotavirus in Mombasa that is affecting children under 18 years,” said Nassir.
Rotavirus is a contagious virus that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. It spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces, objects, or food, as well as through direct contact with infected persons.
The governor has urged parents and caregivers to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
“We are calling upon the public to maintain high standards of hygiene, especially among children, and to take sick children to hospital immediately,” he said.
He also called on health workers in the county to be vigilant and take appropriate measures to manage and contain the outbreak.
The county government has already launched a mass vaccination campaign against the disease, targeting children aged between six weeks and eight months.
“We have enough vaccines to cover all children in the county. We urge parents to take their children for vaccination in the nearest health facility,” said the governor.
Rotavirus is a common cause of diarrhea among young children worldwide, and can be fatal in severe cases. It is preventable through vaccination and good hygiene practices.
