By Lucas Ng’asike and Ali Abdi

Six people have died and others hospitalised following a cholera outbreak in Turkana West and Isiolo districts.

Tukana West Medical Officer of Health Donald Mogoi said the three victims succumbed in Kalobeyei location, about 30km from the Kakuma refugee camp.

Dr Mogoi said 13 other residents tested positive of cholera and were admitted to Kakuma Mission Hospital.

"Some of the cholera victims admitted to the hospital were treated and discharged," he said.

There are fears the disease might spread to neighbouring villages in Kakuma and the refugee camp following an acute shortage of water. But the official denied an outbreak in the camp.

"We are monitoring the situation very closely. Our medical team is carrying out disease surveillance to combat a further outbreak," said Mogoi.

He said residents have been provided with clean water and urged them to report suspected cases.

In Merti, Isiolo leaders said those who died on Friday showed symptoms associated with cholera. Those admitted to hospital also had similar symptoms.

Yamicha Ward Councillor Adhi Sora said more than 20 people, mostly children and the elderly, were affected and admitted to a local hospital.

"There is water shortage in my ward and the residents are using contaminated sources. Most of them are vomiting and suffer diarrhoea. We need urgent help,’’ said Mr Sora.

Merti Ward Councillor Ibrahim Fayo said intervention by the Government and the Kenya Red Cross Society was inadequate.

Local Red Cross co-ordinator Gitonga Mugambi confirmed the three deaths, saying his organisation was working closely with health officials.

"We have received reports of three people who have died and scores affected. Our team is on the ground with medicine worth Sh100,000. We will keep you updated," he said.