- A JOOTRH study shows 60% of market-ready fish in Kisumu contain E. coli.
- Researchers say the bacteria are showing signs of antibiotic resistance.
- Poor waste disposal and pollution in Lake Victoria are the major causes.
A new study by the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital has revealed that more than half of the fish sold in Kisumu markets are contaminated with Escherichia coli. The study tested 256 samples and found that 153 of them carried the bacteria.
“The study tested 256 fish samples and found 153, or 60 per cent, tested positive for E. coli,” the hospital said.
Researchers also noted that some of these bacteria show resistance to antibiotics, making infections harder to treat.
Lead researcher Silas Onyango Awour said the contamination is largely caused by pollution and poor waste control around Lake Victoria. He explained that materials thrown on roads often find their way into the lake, affecting fish quality.
“The high prevalence highlights a significant risk of bacterial contamination likely linked to improper waste disposal and inadequate hygiene along the supply chain,” Awour stated.
“Pampers disposed of along the road eventually find their way to the lake, and they are the main reason why the fish tested positive for E. coli.”
Researchers also pointed to the misuse of antimicrobials in fish farming, which leads to the development of drug-resistant pathogens that can be passed to humans through food.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili said the findings should push the government to tighten rules on antibiotic use in aquaculture. He emphasised that the health risks are growing and need urgent attention.
Antimicrobial resistance has become one of the biggest global health concerns. The World Health Organisation estimates that 1.27 million people died directly from AMR in 2019, while 4.95 million deaths were linked to resistant infections that same year.
WHO warns that AMR is making infections harder to treat and increasing risks in medical procedures such as operations, cancer treatment, and caesarean sections.
