Isiolo County Launches Mass Vaccination Against Rift Valley Fever

ISIOLO, Kenya — Isiolo County has initiated a comprehensive vaccination campaign against Rift Valley Fever, following reports of the disease’s emergence in the neighboring Marsabit County. The campaign is part of the ‘Isiolo County One Health Initiative,’ a collaborative effort involving multiple governmental sectors such as health, water, environment, and livestock, aimed at addressing the spread of the disease, which affects both animals and humans.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Deputy Governor of Isiolo, the county has experienced cases of Rift Valley Fever in the past, with seven deaths recorded in 2020 and 2021. The recent initiative follows the identification of positive cases among animals in Isiolo, whereas human tests have returned negative results so far. The disease has also been detected in humans and animals in Marsabit and Wajir counties, raising concerns over its potential spread.

Dr. Lowassa emphasized the importance of surveillance, public awareness, and the vaccination of animals to prevent further outbreaks. He acknowledged the support of the national government in providing vaccines and urged residents to avoid consuming uninspected meat and milk. The program has begun in Merti and Garbatula areas, focusing on educating the public about the zoonotic nature of the disease and promoting safety measures to prevent transmission.