Cholera Outbreak in Bodo

I have just spoken to Ali (Tuesday night 8:30 p.m.)

There is a cholera outbreak which started in Mombasa at the fruit and vegetable market. 90 people were diagnosed in Mombasa and Ali says six of those have died.

They have closed the market and are stopping food being sold for immediate consumption on the roadside.

In the last two days 10 people in Bodo have been taken to hospital with suspected cholera. It's thought they brought the disease from Mombasa. The outbreak began with one family - father, mother and one child and was then transmitted to neighbours. Four of those who were taken to hospital were then released.

We are now working with medical experts from Msembweni hospital to contain the disease and to spread health education throughout the two communities. This includes simple instructions about sanitation -

Remember these are communities where there are no toilets -apart from those we built at Funzi school. People also need to be reminded about washing their hands and their food in clean water etc.

Ali assures me we are doing everything we can through the clinic.

The outbreak does mean that our vehicle is in greater use . When someone shows any symptoms they are seen by our team first. If there is concern beyond that we are taking people to hospital.

This will mean ourt fuel costs for both the boat and the vehicle will increase as well as the costs of the driver. I am going to suggest we send some additional money without delay.

I will keep in regular contact with Ali and will keep everyone in touch.

This is a most worrying development.

Regards

Ashley