Plague risk in Mombasa

Plague Prevention Guide for Mombasa Plague is a serious bacterial disease caused by Yersinia pestis, transmitted primarily through flea bites from infected rodents, but also through direct contact with infected animals or inhaling respiratory droplets from infected people. Without treatment, it can be fatal. Mombasa's specific risk factors include: high rodent populations in informal settlements and market areas, limited waste management infrastructure, overcrowded housing conditions, proximity to port areas where rats arrive via cargo ships, and warm coastal climate that supports flea breeding year-round. The risk score of 58/100 reflects moderate but manageable danger, particularly in Kisauni, Likoni, and Changamwe neighborhoods. Five actionable prevention steps: Control rodents around your home. Store food in sealed containers, dispose of garbage properly, and seal holes in walls and floors. Eliminate hiding spaces by clearing debris and tall vegetation near living areas. Use rat traps and poison bait stations, and avoid handling dead rodents without gloves. Protect yourself from flea bites. Apply insect repellent containing DEET on skin and treat clothing with permethrin. Wear long sleeves and closed shoes when in high-risk areas. Do not sleep on bare ground. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, or breathing difficulties. Early antibiotic treatment is highly effective. Visit Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital or nearest health facility without delay. Avoid contact with sick or dead animals, especially rats, cats, and dogs. Do not touch wild animals. If you find unusual animal deaths, report to Mombasa County veterinary department immediately. Support community sanitation efforts. Participate in neighborhood clean-up campaigns and report areas with heavy rodent activity to public health authorities. Community-wide rodent control is more effective than individual efforts alone.