Residents of Kajiado West Sub-County are grappling with an outbreak of Kala Azar, a parasitic disease that has spread across much of the semi-arid region.
Kala Azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is caused by the Leishmania parasite and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies. While some individuals show no symptoms, others may experience fever, significant weight loss, and swelling of the spleen or liver.
At Oltepesi Health Centre, over 150 cases have been reported since January, with 15 new cases recorded in July alone.
Young boys herding livestock in the open fields are the most affected.
Many parents have expressed concern over the high cost of treatment in private facilities, often exacerbated by misdiagnosis.
In response, the county health department has urged residents to seek free treatment at Oltepesi Health Centre and Kajiado County Referral Hospital to avert deaths.
