Flu cases surge in Nairobi as cold season takes toll on city residents

A surge in cold-related infections is being felt across Nairobi as the chilly season tightens its grip.

With temperatures dropping and dry winds sweeping the city, many residents are battling persistent coughs, runny noses, and sneezing fits, symptoms now commonplace in early morning matatus and office corridors.

In most commuter vehicles heading to town at dawn, the usual rhythm remains: some passengers half-asleep, others anxiously checking their phones, and gospel music playing softly in the background.

But for the past two weeks, that normalcy has been interrupted by sniffles and coughs, as Nairobians struggle through the cold season.

According to the World Health Organisation, respiratory infections occur year-round, but cases tend to rise sharply during the cold season.

The drop in temperatures weakens nasal immunity by reducing the virus-fighting properties of extracellular vesicles in the nose.

Pharmacists are reporting increased demand for flu medication.

 Brian, a pharmacist in Parklands, says:

“On average, the number of people buying flu medicine from my pharmacy has increased from 15 per day to 28 per day since the onset of the cold season.”

Charity, another pharmacist based in Nairobi’s CBD, notes a similar trend.

“Parents are the majority of my customers. Over the last two weeks, the number of parents buying flu medicine has jumped from about 20 per day to 35,” she explains.

The two say that commonly purchased medication includes Coldcap, an antihistamine that sells at Sh172 for 12 tablets, and Ascoril, a cough syrup preferred by parents, which costs Sh270 per 100ml bottle.

With many people falling ill, medical professionals are advising Nairobians to take extra measures to protect themselves.

Dr. Gulnaz Mohamoud of Bilal Hospital in Eastleigh says maintaining a healthy diet is key.

“Diet is crucial when trying to avoid catching a cold. I recommend heavier carbohydrates such as porridge, ugali, arrowroot, and cassava. These take longer to digest and help retain body warmth,” she advises.

Dr. Mohamoud also stresses the importance of dressing in warm layers—hoodies, sweaters, scarves, and boots—as well as insulating homes by keeping windows shut at night, using heavy curtains, duvets, and carpeting.

“Hydration is another area that’s often ignored,” she adds. “Drinking enough water helps immune cells function properly and keeps mucus membranes healthy, which can ease congestion.”

Certain groups remain more vulnerable to infections, including children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. Sophie, a Nairobi resident, shares her frustration.

“Two weeks ago, my daughter, who is in Grade 5, caught a cold. I bought her medicine and she got better. But now, she’s sick again after picking up another cold at school,” she says.

Due to tough economic times, many Nairobians are opting for home remedies rather than pharmacy purchases. Damaris, who lives in Ngara, is among them.

“Most people are struggling financially. Why spend more than Sh150 on flu medicine when I can make a home remedy that costs me Sh80?” she asks.

Her go-to mixture is hot lemon water with honey, garlic, and ginger—ingredients she says are easily available and affordable from her local market.

Whether through over-the-counter drugs or homemade solutions, Nairobi residents are doing their best to stay healthy during this intense cold season.

For many, it’s a matter of adapting fast or being overwhelmed by a spike in flu and respiratory infections that show no signs of easing.