Ministry intensifies dengue response in Garissa, Wajir as cases hit 1,678

The Ministry of Health has ramped up efforts to combat dengue fever outbreaks in Garissa and Wajir counties. Communities are being advised to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, avoid daytime mosquito bites, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise. As of 26 August 2026, Garissa County has reported 1,583 cumulative dengue cases, while Wajir County has 95 laboratory-confirmed cases, raising the total to 1,678 cases.

Five suspected dengue-related deaths have been recorded in Garissa, with four in Garissa Township and one in Hagadera. Dadaab accounts for the highest number of cases in Garissa, followed by Garissa Township and Fafi. In Wajir, 89.5% of the cases are in Wajir East, with the remaining cases spread across other districts. The Ministry, in collaboration with county governments and partners, has activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, heightened health facility alertness, referred suspected samples to the national reference laboratory, and intensified case management and infection prevention protocols.

Risk communication and community engagement efforts are also underway, focusing on eliminating mosquito breeding sites, preventing bites, and encouraging early medical care. The public is advised to avoid stagnant water accumulation, use mosquito repellents, wear protective clothing, and seek medical help promptly if experiencing fever, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, or other dengue symptoms.

The Ministry remains committed to sustained surveillance and collaboration with various stakeholders to control and ultimately eliminate dengue transmission.