What You Need to Know
The Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory urging Kenyans to prioritize safety during the Easter period. With increased travel and gatherings, citizens are advised to adopt health precautions, including safe food handling, personal hygiene, and responsible behavior on the roads. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness and encourages seeking medical attention for w
Africa-Press – Kenya. The Ministry of Health has called on Kenyans to prioritise their safety and well-being during the upcoming Easter period. The ministry warned that increased travel, public gatherings and social activities could expose citizens to preventable health risks.
In a public advisory, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni urged members of the public to take precautionary measures to safeguard their health and that of their families.
“The Easter period is a time when many Kenyans travel and gather socially. We are urging everyone to remain vigilant and adopt simple but effective measures to stay safe,” Muthoni said.
On travel safety, the PS emphasised the importance of planning journeys and avoiding fatigue while on the road. She urged motorists to strictly observe traffic rules, avoid speeding, and ensure all passengers wear seatbelts.
“Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Your safety and that of others on the road depend on responsible behaviour,” she cautioned. The Ministry also raised concern over food safety and hygiene, noting that cases of foodborne illnesses often rise during festive periods.
Kenyans were advised to consume freshly prepared and well-cooked meals, wash their hands regularly with soap and safe water, and avoid food sold in unhygienic environments.
“Proper food handling and hygiene practices are critical in preventing illness. Always ensure food is stored safely to avoid contamination,” Muthoni said.
On the prevention of communicable diseases, the PS called for heightened personal hygiene, including regular handwashing and avoiding the sharing of personal items.
She further urged Kenyans to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea or persistent cough. “Early treatment not only protects you but also prevents the spread of disease to others,” she added.
The Ministry also highlighted the importance of safe water use, particularly in flood-prone areas, advising the public to drink treated or boiled water and avoid potentially contaminated sources.
As Kenyans prepare to mark the holiday, Muthoni encouraged responsible celebrations, warning against excessive alcohol consumption and urging vigilance in crowded places.
“Ensure the safety of children and vulnerable persons at all times, especially in busy public spaces,” she said.
She further underscored the need for emergency preparedness, urging citizens to keep emergency contacts readily available and seek immediate help from the nearest health facility in case of an incident.
For emergencies, the Ministry advised the public to contact local services or use designated helplines, including 719, 0729 471 414, and 0732 353 535. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and called on all Kenyans to play their part by observing safety guidelines.
The Easter holiday in Kenya is marked by increased travel and social gatherings, which can elevate health risks. Historically, the Ministry of Health has issued advisories during festive periods to mitigate these risks, focusing on food safety, hygiene, and road safety. Public health campaigns aim to educate citizens on preventive measures to ensure a safe holiday experience. The emphasis on personal responsibility and community awareness has been a consistent theme in these advisories, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to public health.
