The Ministry of Health has issued a public health advisory highlighting the increased risk of infectious disease transmission during this festive season.
The advisory emphasises preventive measures to safeguard both individuals and communities.
According to the ministry, the festive period often involves increased travel, social gatherings, and crowded events, all of which can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.
Public Health Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni, explained that certain behaviours and conditions during festivities can accelerate disease transmission.
“As Kenyans celebrate the Christmas festivities and usher in the New Year, the Ministry of Health urges the public to prioritise health, safety, and responsible behaviour. Increased travel, social gatherings, and consumption during this period heighten the risk of preventable illnesses and injuries if caution is not exercised”, she noted.
“We advise Kenyans to purchase meat, meat products, poultry, and processed foods only from licensed and inspected premises and to avoid consumption of uninspected meat”, she advised.
The Ministry noted several key factors that facilitate the spread of infections, including close contact in crowded spaces such as parties, religious gatherings, and busy markets, as well as poor ventilation in indoor venues.
Sharing food, utensils, or personal items, increased travel, exposure to new environments, and reduced attention to personal hygiene or early symptoms of illness were also cited as major contributors.
To mitigate the risks, the Ministry has urged the citizens to wash their hands regularly or use sanitiser, cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, and avoid touching their faces.
The Ministry further warns against increased alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, and other substance use during the festive season.
“We urge the public to consume alcohol responsibly or abstain entirely and strongly caution against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Parents, guardians, and community leaders must actively protect children and young people from exposure to drugs and substance abuse,” the PS cautioned.
HIV Transmission
The Ministry also cautioned against risky sexual behaviour during the festive season, which increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and unintended pregnancies.
“We urge the public to make informed decisions, avoid sexual activity under the influence of alcohol or drugs, use condoms and seek timely testing, counselling, and treatment services where necessary”, the PS implored.
