Editorials

EDITORIAL: Tackle Rift Valley Fever

fever

Health secretary sicily kariuki. FILE PHOTO | NMG

Reports that 17 counties are at high risk of  a Rift Valley Fever outbreak are worrying.

The risk has been exacerbated by the prolonged flooding that is being experienced in the low lands.

The disease that is spread by mosquitoes has been detected in livestock and human beings. We urge the government to move fast and contain the Rift Valley Fever threat.

We also welcome the steps taken by the authorities to warn the public of the imminent danger by advising them to observe high standards of hygiene to avoid contracting the disease. According to the Agriculture and Health ministries, the affected counties include Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Laikipia, Nyandarua,Nakuru, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Meru and Nairobi.

Others are Kajiado, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River , Mombasa and Kwale.

The public should also take the warnings seriously. For example, they should not slaughter any livestock without inspection by veterinary inspection.

Prevention is much cheaper, better and easier than potential losses.