With the ongoing dry season bringing extreme temperature fluctuations—scorching heat during the day and unusually cold nights—local authorities in Elgeyo Marakwet County are urging residents to remain vigilant against the increased risk of snake bites and other climate-related health concerns.
The warning comes after a schoolboy reportedly succumbed to a snakebite in a neighboring county last week, raising alarm over the growing human-wildlife conflicts as reptiles and wild animals struggle for scarce water sources.
Authorities Call for Vigilance Against Snakes
The Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Services, Ms. Caroline Magut, has advised residents—particularly those in the lowland areas—to take preventive measures to keep their homes and surroundings safe from snakes and other wildlife.
"Residents should ensure their doors and windows remain closed, especially in the evenings and at night, to prevent snakes from entering their homes," she said.
She further urged families to clear bushes and remove heaped refuse around their homesteads, as such environments provide ideal hiding spots for snakes.
Traditional Snake Repellents and Safety Measures
In addition to keeping compounds clean, Ms. Magut recommended the use of traditional snake-repellent methods, such as:
- Splashing diesel or kerosene around homes to deter snakes.
- Placing water sources at a distance from houses to keep thirsty snakes from searching for water indoors.
- Wearing protective clothing, such as boots, when walking in bushy areas.
"People should avoid walking through bushy areas unnecessarily, but if they must, they should wear boots to reduce the risk of snake bites," she advised.
Adequate Stock of Anti-Venom in Health Facilities
In response to the increasing risk of snake bites, the Department of Health Services in Elgeyo Marakwet has ensured that all health facilities across Kerio Valley are well-stocked with anti-venom medication.
Ms. Magut assured residents that treatment for snake bites is available at local hospitals and dispensaries, urging anyone bitten by a snake to seek immediate medical attention.
"We have taken steps to ensure that anti-venom is available in all our health facilities. It is important that people do not delay seeking medical help in the event of a snake bite," she emphasized.
Hydration and Climate Adaptation Measures
Apart from snake bite concerns, health officials are also advising residents to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which is common in hot and dry conditions.
With daytime temperatures in Kerio Valley reaching 28°C to 34°C, and the highlands of Elgeyo Marakwet and the Uasin Gishu plateau experiencing temperatures between 23°C and 26°C, staying hydrated is crucial for overall health and well-being.
"Drinking a lot of water and fluids helps to prevent dehydration, which is common in extreme heat," Ms. Magut advised.
Infant and Child Health During the Dry Season
Health officials are also cautioning mothers with infants to adjust the way they dress their children to avoid heat rashes, which are prevalent in hot conditions.
"Parents should avoid overdressing their babies with excessive warm clothes, as this can lead to heat rashes. Even baby diapers can contribute to heat-related discomfort," Ms. Magut noted.
Respiratory Health Precautions
Individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma are also encouraged to take precautionary measures, particularly when air quality is poor due to dust and dry conditions.
"People suffering from asthma or other respiratory illnesses should consider using nose masks, as the current atmospheric conditions can worsen breathing problems," Ms. Magut advised.
Weather Patterns and Temperature Variations
According to Mr. Simion Cheptot, Director of Meteorology in Elgeyo Marakwet, the region is experiencing wide temperature variations between day and night.
- Kerio Valley temperatures: 28°C - 34°C during the day; 18°C - 23°C at night.
- Highlands and escarpments of Elgeyo Marakwet to Uasin Gishu Plateau: 23°C - 26°C during the day; 7°C - 11°C at night.
These conditions increase human-wildlife interactions, as animals, including snakes, move closer to human settlements in search of water and shelter.
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