The Ministry of Health has launched an urgent investigation into a mysterious illness following the deaths of four individuals in the Migadini area of Mombasa County.
The unexplained fatalities, which occurred between July 9 and July 14, 2025, have raised concern among residents and health officials alike.
According to a statement from the Ministry, initial alerts were issued by the Mombasa County Department of Health, prompting the immediate deployment of a team of public health officers and disease surveillance experts to the area.
“While no evidence currently points to an infectious disease, precautionary measures are being taken seriously as investigations continue,” the Ministry said. “The health and safety of the public remain our top priority.”
Residents Alarmed by Unusual Symptoms
Local reports indicate that the victims were discovered dead in their homes, with disturbing and unusual physical signs.
Witnesses described boil-like sores, darkened and peeling skin resembling burns, and a strong foul odour from the bodies.
The Ministry acknowledged these observations but cautioned against drawing premature conclusions.
“All four individuals had known histories of chronic illnesses, and our preliminary assessments are being guided by both medical and environmental considerations,” officials stated.
Breakdown of Reported Cases
- July 9: A 91-year-old woman died at home. Community members reported she had been ill for some time due to an unspecified chronic condition.
- July 14: Three more deaths were reported:
- A 57-year-old man, who had been receiving treatment for multiple chronic illnesses at Port-Reitz Sub-County Hospital, was found deceased in his home.
- A 69-year-old man, reportedly asthmatic, was discovered in an advanced stage of decomposition.
- A 55-year-old man with a history of chronic disease and a recent bout of dengue fever was also found dead, with his body showing similar early decomposition.
Public Health Advisory Issued
In the wake of the alarming reports, the Ministry of Health has issued several public safety directives aimed at minimizing risk while investigations are underway:
- Avoid handling human remains without proper protective measures or professional assistance.
- Practice personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap or the use of alcohol-based sanitisers.
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing unusual symptoms or general illness.
- Report any missing persons or suspicious deaths to local health officials or community leaders.
The Ministry has also urged residents to cooperate fully with community health volunteers and public health officials conducting door-to-door assessments in Migadini.
No Confirmed Outbreak — Yet
Despite the troubling reports, officials have reiterated that there is currently no confirmed outbreak of an infectious disease.
Ongoing lab testing, forensic analysis, and interviews with community members are expected to inform next steps.
“We are not ruling anything out at this stage. However, we ask the public to remain calm and follow the guidance of health authorities as we continue our investigations,” the Ministry added.
The situation is being closely monitored, with further updates expected in the coming days as more information becomes available.
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