Nakuru Health Ministry Refutes Claims Of Swine Flu Outbreak
The Nakuru County Department of Health has denied claims that there is a swine flu outbreak in the region.
Lydia Kadima 
Dr. Daniel Wainaina, the acting chief officer of public health services, has clarified that the outbreak that was discovered is seasonal influenza A, not swine flu as had been previously reported by media outlets.
Dr. Wainaina pointed out that the influenza A (subtype H1NI) virus, which causes the common cold, was linked to the country's recently ended cold season.
He added that although the variant was not found, the HINI subtype can also infect animals, particularly pigs (swine flu).
"The variant detected in Nakuru is not the one that causes influenza in animals. The Nakuru County Department of Health, therefore, wishes to clarify that no swine-flu cases have been detected in the county as reported by some sections of the media," wrote Dr. Wainaina said in a statement.
The County Department of Health has also gathered and sent additional samples to the lab, where results are awaited, he continued.
Droplets from a cough or contact with contaminated surfaces can spread the infection. Cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, chills, and exhaustion are typical symptoms of the flu.
The health service has recommended individuals maintain hand cleanliness, avoid close contact with infected people, follow cough etiquette, and receive influenza vaccinations due to the increase in cases.
There have been 143 cases documented as of Monday, August 23, including 127 kids under the age of five. 7 patients are currently admitted, and 135 have recovered and been released. One child died from the illness.
