At least 10 people have died from rotavirus since its outbreak two weeks ago, according to the Kenya Red Cross Society.

According to Mombasa branch chairman, Mahmoud Noor, the casualties are seven men and three women.

“Out of the 10 deaths reported, three are from Kisauni Sub-County, two are from Nyali and one from Likoni. Four deaths are unaccounted for due to incomplete data,” Mahmoud said.

Those affected may suffer severe diarrhoea, losing too much water that they require emergency care. The most common symptoms of rotavirus are watery diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and/or abdominal pain.

Now, the Mombasa Disaster Management Committee has appealed for support from well-wishers to alleviate the challenges faced by 1,671 people affected by floods and feared being exposed to infection.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has now issued a cautionary alert to the public about the disease on April 12 as the county government registers 75 cases among children in various health centres.

Those living in flood-prone areas have been advised to move to higher grounds to avert loss of life and property.
Areas most affected by floods and disease outbreaks are Miritini, Jomvu, Mikindani, Kazonzo, Bakarani, Magogoni, Tudor, Buxton, Ziwani, Majengo, Msikiti Ridhwa, Dolphin, Mlolongo, Migadini, Mwembeni, Shonda and Timbwani with 3 health facilities affected too.

“Some houses have been blown away by heavy wind. Currently, 22 houses in Miritini Madukani, Mburukenge, Kipevu, and Chaani are completely damaged and 35 are partially damaged,” said Ambani.

The affected people are being hosted at Kipevu Primary School where by now there are 65 households.

For any donations, you can take them at fire stations in Likoni and Changamwe, the Emergency and Operation Centre in Tudor or you can channel your contributions through the Mombasa branch pay till number 4081515, account under the name Flood Response.

By Jane Kibathi.