Kenyans have been urged to exercise caution during the Christmas festivities following fears of possible surge in infectious diseases linked to social gatherings and travels.
The Ministry of Health has warned against increased travel, social gatherings and alcohol consumption as they heightens the risk of preventable illnesses and injuries.
In a Sunday advisory by Public Health PS Mary Muthoni, the Ministry indicates that food-borne illnesses could rise sharply during the festive season.
“Kenyans are advised to purchase meat, meat products, poultry and processed foods only from licensed and inspected premises and to avoid consumption of uninspected meat,” she said.
The food, should be thoroughly cooked and consumed hot, with strict separation of raw and cooked foods to prevent contamination, the advisory added.
The Ministry emphasizes proper hand hygiene, clean food preparation surfaces, use of safe treated water for cooking and drinking, and careful handling of leftovers, which must be reheated until steaming hot.
Food handlers and hospitality establishments have been directed to ensure that only medically certified food handlers prepare and serve food and that food safety standards are fully upheld.
The public has been urged to consume alcohol responsibly or abstain entirely and to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
PS Muthoni said the Ministry, in collaboration with enforcement agencies, will intensify surveillance to prevent illicit substances from accessing the Kenyan market and will take firm action against offenders.
“There is no safe level of tobacco or nicotine use and that second-hand smoke poses serious health risks to non-smokers”.
The Ministry also cautions against risky sexual behaviour during the festive season, which increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and unintended pregnancies.
