Do you know the most common waterborne diseases in Kenya?

Access to safe water is still a challenge in Kenya, both in rural villages and urban areas like Nairobi. Old water pipes, sewage leaks, and contaminated wells put families at risk of diseases that could easily be prevented. Clean water is about protecting lives.

Common Waterborne Illnesses

Unsafe water is responsible for several common illnesses:

• Cholera causes severe watery diarrhea and dehydration, often spreading quickly during floods.
• Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, leads to fever, stomach pain, and fatigue.
• Diarrheal diseases remain a leading cause of death among children under five.
• Dysentery brings bloody diarrhea and cramps.
• Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated water, affecting the liver.
• Giardiasis and bilharzia are parasitic infections common in rural areas where rivers and ponds are used for washing.

Why Are Kenyans at Risk?

Even where water is available, contamination is widespread. In informal settlements, poor sanitation pollutes nearby water sources. In cities like Nairobi, old pipes and illegal connections often allow for the contamination of water before it reaches homes. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially vulnerable.

How to Prevent Water-Related Illnesses

The good news is that most of these diseases are preventable. Simple practices go a long way: Boil or filter drinking water, Use water purifiers for reliable long-term protection, Store water in clean, covered containers with taps, Wash hands before eating and after using the toilet.

Why Water Purifiers Matter

Unlike boiling, which only kills germs, purifiers also remove parasites and chemicals. They are safer, faster, and more cost-effective in the long run making them an essential investment for households in Nairobi and beyond . Waterborne diseases remain one of Kenya’s biggest public health challenges, but prevention starts at home. By improving hygiene and using purifiers or filters, families can protect themselves and secure a healthier future. Clean water is a right for all of us.