Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has called for heightened vigilance during the festive season amid rising disease samples at the Kenya National Public Health Laboratory. Speaking in Mbeere North, Embu County, she urged strict meat inspections to prevent public health risks. She also cautioned parents to engage children meaningfully to shield them from sexual and drug-related dangers when supervision may lapse.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni addressed the public in Mbeere North, Embu County, stressing the need for vigilance during the festive season. She noted that the Kenya National Public Health Laboratory is processing samples for diseases including cholera, mpox, and marburg, underscoring the importance of robust public health measures.
Muthoni urged veterinary officers to conduct thorough inspections of all meat at slaughterhouses and from sellers before it reaches consumers. "Meat inspection must be carried out by trained professionals, warning that unsafe handling can expose the public to serious health risks," she stated. She highlighted that strict checks are vital during holidays, when the risk of contaminated meat entering markets rises.
"We want to encourage each and every person to stay put during this holiday season, because this is the season we have a lot of things happening," Muthoni said. She also called on the public to report any suspected carcasses at homes to avoid issues.
Her comments highlight the key role of health and veterinary officials in preventing outbreaks and ensuring food safety amid heightened festive activities. Additionally, Muthoni advised families to talk to children and keep them engaged to protect against sexual and drug risks when oversight decreases.