At least 163 individuals, including children, have fallen ill after allegedly consuming poisonous milk (Mursik) at a church event in Kericho County.
The incident, which occurred in the Lel Sotet, Masaita, and Kabianga areas of Kipkelion East, has left many residents seeking medical attention.
The affected individuals, mostly members of the Church of Christ congregation in Londiani Ward, began experiencing severe symptoms, including vomiting, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea, after consuming the fermented milk on Friday evening.
The milk, which was prepared by a local dairy for a church gathering, is suspected to have been contaminated.
Mursik, a traditional fermented milk drink, holds deep cultural significance among the Kalenjin people.
Made from cow or goat milk, it is traditionally fermented in a calabash gourd known as a sotet.
The drink is commonly served at various cultural and social gatherings, including ceremonies and celebrations.
Following the outbreak, the victims were rushed to Londiani Sub County Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed food poisoning as the likely cause.
“The symptoms displayed are consistent with foodborne illness, and we are treating the patients accordingly,” said a hospital official.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the source of the contamination, while local health officials have issued a warning to residents about the risks of consuming unregulated dairy products.
As of now, no fatalities have been reported, though several individuals remain under medical observation.
This incident has raised concerns over the safety of traditional dairy products in the region, with calls for stricter regulations to ensure food safety, particularly at public events
. Authorities are advising the public to exercise caution and ensure that milk and other dairy products are properly handled and tested before consumption.
The situation remains under close monitoring as health officials continue to investigate the cause of the contamination.
