Kenya Veterinary Board Issues Festive Season Alert Over Unsafe Meat

The Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB) has issued an urgent warning to the public concerning meat consumption ahead of the festive season.

In a media briefing on December 23, KVB officials reiterated the necessity of acquiring meat solely from licensed outlets, cautioning consumers against meat sourced from deceased animals, which is often sold at lower prices without proper inspection. The board emphasizes the importance of ensuring that purchased meat displays government-approved rubber stamps as a mark of inspection and approval for human consumption.

A veterinary doctor participating in the briefing highlighted the dangers of consuming unregulated meat, stating, "Your health begins with you." The doctor further recommended that consumers request certificates of authorization for meat transportation from slaughterhouses to butcheries.
This advisory aligns with an earlier statement from the Ministry of Health, which reiterated the necessity for consuming inspected meat.

In a press release on the same day, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni outlined vital measures to uphold food safety and hygiene. She urged the public to keep raw and cooked foods separate to minimize contamination risks and stressed the importance of using clean, treated, or boiled water for both cooking and drinking. Muthoni also highlighted the need for frequent handwashing with soap and running water, as well as ensuring that all food is cooked thoroughly and served hot.

In addition to food safety, her advisory encompassed general health precautions, urging Kenyans to stay hydrated, protect themselves against extreme weather, and practice respiratory hygiene by covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. Other recommended preventive measures included sleeping under treated mosquito nets to avoid malaria, practising safe sex or abstaining, and seeking immediate medical attention if experiencing health issues.

These guidelines are part of a comprehensive initiative to safeguard public health, particularly during a time characterized by increased travel and social gatherings. Together, the advisories from the KVB and the Ministry of Health highlight the pressing need for attention to food safety and overall health practices during the festive season.