NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- An outbreak of Rift Valley Fever is stirring panic in Kenya as confirmed infections in humans hit 402, with 118 deaths.
The virus, which affects animals but can be transmitted to humans, has been found in North Eastern, Eastern and Coast provinces as well as in the Rift Valley and Central Province, despite government efforts to create buffer zones through a massive livestock inoculation program.
The Daily Nation reported Friday that some slaughter house and butcher shops in the affected areas have been closed. The movement of livestock and the sale of raw milk have also been banned by the government.
Rift Valley Fever was first detected in Garissa, near the border with Somalia, two months ago. It can be transmitted between animals by mosquito bite. The the main cross-over danger to humans comes from contact with animal blood and through handling or consuming of animal products.
In humans is produces flu-like symptoms and in severe cases, manifest itself as haemorrhagic fever.
Outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever can cause severe economic damage to a country's agricultural sector.
