by PERPETUA ETYANGFriday August 7, 2026
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A surge in dengue fever cases has prompted the United States to issue a travel health alert for Kenya, with travellers urged to take heightened precautions against mosquito bites.
In an alert released by the US Embassy in Nairobi, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) included Kenya on its updated Travel Health Notice list of countries reporting increased dengue infections.
The notice advises travellers to exercise particular caution in Kenya’s coastal region and in Wajir and Garissa counties.
“Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus common in tropical and subtropical climates that can lead to fever, aches and pains, nausea, and rashes,” the embassy said.
The embassy encouraged people planning to visit affected areas to review the CDC’s travel health advisories and take steps to limit exposure to mosquitoes.
Among the recommended measures are applying an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long trousers outdoors, and choosing air-conditioned accommodation or rooms equipped with window screens.
The warning comes as Kenyan health authorities track dengue infections in several parts of the country. The illness is mainly spread by bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes.
Travellers looking for additional information were advised by the US Embassy to consult the CDC’s travel health guidance or contact the agency before travelling to affected areas.
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes that affects millions of people around the world.
People diagnosed with the illness should follow medical guidance carefully, keep watch on their symptoms and make rest a priority.
Maintaining adequate fluid intake is important in reducing the risk of complications, while nutritious food can help the body recover.
Patients should also watch for warning signs of a worsening condition and obtain immediate medical care when required.
Depending on the severity of the illness, doctors may recommend hospitalisation for closer observation and appropriate treatment during recovery.
In May, Garissa county began a major fumigation campaign to contain dengue fever after a recent outbreak led to several residents being admitted to Garissa County Referral Hospital.
The two-week operation officially began on Thursday and was set to cover drainage areas, public institutions, schools, markets and other public spaces throughout Garissa township as health officials worked to eradicate mosquitoes linked to the spread of the disease.
Health officials said samples collected from patients at Garissa County Referral Hospital confirmed dengue fever infections. The disease is carried by the Aedes mosquito, which commonly breeds in stagnant water.
Hassan Abdullahi, representing the Medical Officer of Health, told the press after supervising the launch of the fumigation campaign that tests conducted at the National Public Health Laboratory confirmed the outbreak. Of the 40 samples collected from public and private health facilities, 28 tested positive for dengue fever.
