Lodwar – December 22, 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
The Department for Health and Sanitation has intensified preparedness measures against Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) following a high-level consultative meeting with the National Public Health Institute that identified Kibish Sib-County and surrounding border region as high-risk zones.
The meeting, which brought together national and county government health experts, development partners, and humanitarian agencies, reviewed a recent risk assessment that placed Omorate in neighboring Ethiopia as the current epicenter, with significant cross-border interaction posing a threat to northern Turkana.
The Chief Officer, Medical Services, Dr Gilchrist Lokoel said Turkana remains on high alert due to frequent population movement across porous borders.
“There is extensive interaction between communities in Kokuro, Kibish, Lapur, and the refugee camps. These dynamics demand heightened surveillance and rapid response,” he said.
Dr Lokoel further disclosed that the county is simultaneously managing other public health threats, including an ongoing Kala Azar outbreak that has claimed more than 400 lives in the past six months, stretching already limited resources.
Laboratory and surveillance teams reported gaps in logistics, fuel, and personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as shortages of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials.
National Public Health Institute team lead Peter Lokamar assured the county of continued support, including the provision of PPEs and deployment of specialized laboratory teams. At least 50 PPE kits have already been availed, with further supplies expected.
“There is a need for sustained screening at points of entry for at least 21 days and additional training for healthcare workers and community health promoters,” Lokamar added.
The Chief Officer, Preventive and Promotive Health, Agnes Mana highlighted the unique risks posed by island communities along Lake Turkana, noting frequent interaction with Ethiopian communities. She called for tailored interventions to address hard-to-reach areas.
Presenting the situation analysis, Acting Director, Preventive and Promotive Health, Daniel Esimit said access routes through Kibish, Kokuro, Todonyang, and Lake Turkana increase the county’s vulnerability.
He noted that refugee settlements, particularly Kakuma, which hosts populations from more than 26 countries, further heighten the risk of disease transmission.
The meeting agreed on priority thematic areas including surveillance, case management, risk communication and community engagement, coordination, quarantine and isolation, and safe and dignified burials. Officials also emphasized the need to factor in seasonal challenges such as the ongoing rains.
Health authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the health workers as the county government strengthens preparedness to prevent a possible outbreak.
The national team has been deployed to work with and support the county government, which is taking the lead in MVD preparedness activities.
