Suspected Food Poisoning at Kirinyaga Burial Leaves 100 Ill
About 100 people fell ill after eating catered food at a burial in Kirinyaga, with 14 still hospitalized as investigations continue.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 21, 2026
2 min read
Approximately 100 individuals suffered suspected food poisoning after consuming catered meals at a burial ceremony in Inoi Ward, Kirinyaga Central Sub-County. The event, held on August 14, 2026, attracted around 600 mourners to the homestead of David Nyagah.
As of August 17, fourteen patients, including two children under five, remain admitted at ACK Mt. Kenya Hospital. A further 68 have been treated and discharged, with no fatalities reported.
Symptoms and Investigation
Those affected experienced symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, chills, and general malaise. Some also developed high blood pressure despite no prior history of hypertension. Symptoms manifested between 24 hours and three days after consuming the food.
A five-member public health team conducted inspections on August 15 and 17, examining the catering company Ndungu’s Spices of Kerugoya, the meat supplier butchery in Githioro, and the water supplier Beulah Springs in Mugetha.
Investigators found that the cooked food had been kept for five to six hours before serving and was exposed to direct sunlight, raising concerns about temperature control. The water bottling plant’s hygiene standards were also found lacking, resulting in a compliance notice.
Response and Ongoing Measures
- All affected individuals were referred for medical evaluation and treatment.
- Food handlers received hygiene and hand-washing training.
- Food and clinical samples were collected for laboratory testing.
- Surveillance continues to detect any new cases.
Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari urged residents to exercise caution when handling and consuming food at public events. He emphasized the importance of proper food hygiene, cooking, and timely serving to prevent similar outbreaks.
