18 dead, hundreds infected as Kala-azar spreads in Wajir

An outbreak of Kala-azar in Wajir County has claimed 18 lives and infected more than 500 people over the last three months, putting pressure on health officials trying to manage the crisis.

The parasitic disease, caused by the Leishmania parasite, has spread across four sub-counties, with 106 patients currently hospitalized.

Health workers report that the outbreak, which began in December, has severely impacted the region.

Many patients have suffered complications due to late diagnosis, increasing the risk of fatalities. So far, medical personnel have recorded 532 cases, with most patients responding well to treatment.

However, delays in seeking medical care have led to deaths.

"We are dealing with an endemic disease, but this outbreak is severe. We urge residents to seek medical attention immediately to avoid further fatalities," said Dr. Ali, a Wajir County Referral Hospital pediatrician.

The Wajir County Government has taken emergency measures to curb the spread of the disease.

These include opening new treatment wards, deploying additional medical teams, and carrying out mass fumigation in affected areas.

Officials are working to expand hospital capacity and ensure a steady supply of emergency medical resources.

"We have set up multiple treatment centers and deployed medical teams across the county. Our biggest challenge remains late health-seeking behavior, which has cost lives," said Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed.

Kala-azar symptoms include prolonged fever, weight loss, fatigue, anaemia, diarrhoea, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen and liver. Health officials warn that the situation could worsen if residents do not seek treatment early.

Authorities are urging national agencies and humanitarian partners to assist in controlling the outbreak and preventing a wider health crisis.