On Sunday, the National Environment Authority (NEMA) issued a public alert about the dangers of sodium cyanide that was looted from a truck that overturned on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway.
NEMA disclosed that the truck was carrying sodium cyanide, a hazardous substance that poses significant risks to both health and the environment.
The spill occurred in the Kambembe area of Rironi, and several containers of the toxic material have been reported missing.
NEMA urged the public to avoid any contact with the white, pellet-like substance and to report any sightings of the containers to local authorities immediately.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) also advised residents to avoid the area and to cooperate with authorities handling the situation.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued a warning about the extreme toxicity of sodium cyanide, noting that even small quantities can be fatal if ingested or inhaled. Immediate symptoms of exposure include headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting. Severe exposure can quickly lead to loss of consciousness and convulsions.
Chronic exposure to lower levels may cause long-term health issues such as neurological damage, thyroid dysfunction, and cardiovascular problems.
Sodium cyanide also poses a serious threat to aquatic life, with accidental releases into water bodies potentially causing widespread fish kills and long-term ecological damage.
The MoH advises using appropriate personal protective equipment to avoid direct contact with the substance.