The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued a seven-day strike notice over the failure of the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover for teachers and outstanding claims.

• KUPPET is demanding immediate government action to resolve drug shortages and ensure timely payments to hospitals.
• Key figures involved include KUPPET Secretary-General Akello Misori and National Chair Omboko Milemba.
• RUPHA has suspended services in private hospitals due to alleged unpaid government claims exceeding Ksh30 billion over ten months, leaving teachers to pay out-of-pocket despite salary deductions.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has unveiled a new digital system designed to prevent public doctors from practising privately during their official working hours.

• The system will automatically reject Social Health Authority (SHA) insurance claims from doctors who authorize private clinic treatments while scheduled to be on duty at public hospitals.
• This measure targets doctors who misuse public time and resources at the expense of patients in public facilities.
• The initiative is part of broader reforms aiming to ensure efficient use of public health funds and comes amidst fraud claims against SHA.

The Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory due to a rise in influenza cases across Kenya.

• The surge aligns with Kenya's typical seasonal influenza patterns, usually seen between late February and May, and again from July to October.
• Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth confirmed the situation is being closely monitored with enhanced surveillance and preparedness measures.
• While most cases are mild, individuals under 5, older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of serious illness.