Government Issues Health Advisory to All Schools Days After Reopening

The Ministry of Health has issued an advisory to all schools to ensure sanitation as heavy rains continue to be experienced across the country. 

In a statement on Saturday, May 18, the Ministry asked school administrators to ensure that all schools had clear evacuation routes and warning signals. 

The school heads were further required to prohibit students from walking or playing in floodwaters and promote regular handwashing and safe food preparation.

At the same time, the Ministry mandated the administrators to ensure water used for drinking, cooking, and hygiene is treated or boiled.

"The Ministry also calls on public health departments to support schools by conducting regular sanitary inspections, testing water quality, and responding promptly to any health concerns raised by schools," read part of the statement by the Ministry of Health.

Additionally, the Susan Nakhumicha-led ministry tasked school heads with ensuring students used mosquito nets and wore long sleeves in mosquito-prone areas.

They were further advised to ensure toilets and bathrooms were in good condition, properly store food to avoid contamination, be vigilant for signs of disease, and report any outbreaks promptly.

“Our priority is to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students during these challenging times. We urge all school administrations to be vigilant and proactive in implementing these measures,” Health PS Mary Muthoni remarked.

The advisory came a week after schools reopened for Term Two with the Ministry of Health stating that the advisory was part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to mitigate the impacts of floods and maintain safe educational environments.