Authorities are appealing for calm as investigations into the mysterious disease that has affected St. Teresa Eregi Girls High School continue.
Kakamega county government on Tuesday confirmed 95 students had been hospitalised after alleged paralysis in the leg.
According to Kakamega County’s CEC for Health, Bernard Wesonga, samples of blood, urine, and stool have been collected and sent to both the Kisumu laboratory and KEMRI Nairobi for extensive testing to determine the cause of the unknown illness that has caused panic and anxiety among parents.
According to the figures released by the management, 29 students are currently receiving treatment at Iguhu Hospital, 39 at Kakamega Referral Hospital, 31 at Mukumu Mission Hospital, and 14 at Shibwe Hospital.
“ Some students are responding positively to medication, while others are still under medical care” he stated.
The affected students have reportedly displayed symptoms of knee pain, which has resulted in difficulty walking.
The lab results are expected tomorrow (Wednesday).
Obiero Jared, the Regional Director of Education, assured the public that the situation was under control, dispelling rumors that more than 100 students had been admitted.
He however stressed the importance of open communication between the school administration and parents to manage the crisis.
This follows complaints by parents who stormed the school demanding answers from the principal.
Margaret Kalekye/Carolyn Necheza
