Unknown disease outbreak claims 9 lives in northern Kenya

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – A mysterious disease outbreak in northern Kenya's Marsabit County has claimed nine lives over the past two weeks, authorities confirmed Thursday.

Local area authorities have reported that more than 80 people have fallen seriously ill after the disease emerged in the Kargi area of Loiyangalani Sub-county.

The majority of the fatalities were recorded in grazing areas, raising concerns among local communities and health officials.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, a local leader in Kargi, Senior Chief Moses Galoro, confirmed the deaths, saying: "We have lost nine people so far, and at least 80 others are bedridden in the villages due to a mysterious disease outbreak. I appeal for an urgent intervention."

According to Galoro, the fatalities included six adults and three children aged between one and three years old.

The affected individuals have exhibited flu-like symptoms, including severe headaches, swollen spleens, and yellowing of the eyes.

Health authorities in Marsabit say they are working tirelessly to identify the cause of the disease, which has malaria-like symptoms, and provide necessary medical care to those affected.