Senator Hamida Kibwana has requested a Statement from the Senate Standing Committee on Health regarding the growing burden of sepsis in Kenya, a life-threatening condition that continues to affect newborns, children and adults across the country.
The Senator noted that sepsis remains a serious public health concern that is often under-recognized despite its devastating impact on patients and families.
“Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that, if not detected and treated promptly, can lead to organ failure, septic shock and death. Despite its severity, it remains under-recognized, costly to treat, and a major contributor to mortality in our hospitals,” Senator Kibwana stated.
In her request, the Senator asked the Committee to provide updated national data on the prevalence and mortality rates of sepsis in Kenya, disaggregated by age groups including newborns, children and adults.
The Committee is also expected to outline measures taken by the Ministry of Health Kenya to strengthen infection prevention and control protocols in health facilities. This includes detailing strategies being implemented to address antimicrobial resistance, which continues to complicate the management and treatment of sepsis.
Further, the Senator asked the Committee to report on the status of neonatal and adult intensive care units across counties, including whether these facilities are adequately equipped with the necessary infrastructure, medical equipment and trained personnel to manage severe sepsis and septic shock.
Additionally, the Committee should explain government strategies aimed at improving early diagnosis and expanding laboratory capacity, enhancing the training of healthcare workers, and indicate whether there are plans to subsidize or cover sepsis treatment under the Social Health Insurance Fund in order to protect families from catastrophic medical expenses.
In a separate request, Senator Kibwana also sought a Statement from the Senate Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources regarding concerns over lead contamination in soils and water in parts of Kenya.
By Anthony Solly
