Shortage of laboratory reagents hampers the fight against cholera, according to MoH.[iStockphoto]

Since October last year, an outbreak of the disease has been reported in 24 counties, with a total of 10, 784 cases.

The counties are Garissa (2, 789), Mandera (2,019), Nairobi (1,986), Wajir (847), Tana River (780), Kiambu (510), Machakos (491), Kajiado (394), Uasin Gishu (137), Homa Bay (133), Marsabit (109), 105 cases in Mombasa and 91 in Siaya.

Other counties include Meru, Samburu, Kisumu, Nyeri, Murang'a, Kitui, Isiolo, West Pokot, Nakuru, Bomet and Kirinyaga.

Of the cumulative cases, 5,659 (52 percent) are males, 5,125 (48 percent) are females, whereas 3, 631 are in the age group of below 10 years.

Additionally, of the 177 deaths, 78 are from Nairobi and Tana River Cuties, while Garissa and Wajir account for 33 deaths in total.

Similarly, Garissa and Tana River counties have the highest attack rate.

"Overall, Garissa (331.5) and Tana River (246.9) counties have the highest attack rates, with national) affected counties), being 39.1 per 100,000," added the ministry's report.

In the situation report, the Ministry noted that, together with counties and partners, it is implementing critical outbreak response interventions in the affected communities, as an urgent need.

Also, it listed mobilisation of additional resources as useful need, for the implementation of the response plan.

"There is also a need to continue to scale up surge support and operationalisation of the rapid response in the counties," added the Ministry.

"Continue the cholera preparedness including prepositions of supplies." noted the Ministry, adding, "Procure and supply essential medical equipment and supplies for health care facilities."