The ministries of Agriculture and Health have put the country on high alert over a possible outbreak of Rift Valley Fever because of flooding that has been caused by the ongoing rains.
In the joint statement signed by the Director of Veterinary Services Dr Obadiah Njagi and his Health counterpart Dr Jackson Kioko, said no case has been reported yet.
According to Njagi, there is increased risk of the outbreak, which affects both human and livestock.
He said flooding was not only displacing human beings and animals but was increasing risks of diseases that are transmitted by mosquitoes such as Rift Valley Fever. “Rift Valley Fever is a viral disease of livestock but also affects human beings if they get into contact with blood or tissues from infected animals,” he said.
Njagi said certain groups Such as herders, slaughterhouse workers, farmers and veterinarians were at higher risk of getting infected.
