Mystery illness sparks panic in Mombasa. Fear grips Migadini estate in Mombasa County after a mysterious illness killed four residents. The first case occurred on July 9, 2025, when a 91-year-old woman died at home. County health officials linked her death to an unidentified chronic illness.
A week later, three more residents died. Locals discovered a 55-year-old man and a 69-year-old man already decomposing. They also found a 57-year-old man dead in his house. The sudden deaths and disturbing symptoms have left residents in shock. Victims suffered severe swelling and developed pus-filled wounds.
“The bodies swell like they have boils and turn white,” said resident Michael Nyamai. “People bloat and smell badly,” added Maulid Hassan, another local. Residents now fear for their lives, especially those who interacted with the deceased. Some reported that other locals have already sought hospitalization.
“This disease is affecting our entire community,” said Wera. Some locals suspect a disease outbreak. Others blame toxic fumes from factories near the estate.
“We don’t think it’s Mpox. We believe the victims inhaled poisonous gases from nearby installations,” said Peterside Otieno. Health officers from Mombasa County visited Migadini and launched investigations to identify the illness.
In a press briefing, the county government urged residents to report missing persons and avoid touching dead bodies. Officials also encouraged people to maintain personal hygiene and visit health centers when feeling unwell. The disease’s cause remains unclear, but panic continues to spread. Health teams continue their investigation.
