The government has issued a public health warning cautioning Kenyans against participating in prolonged tree-hugging challenges without undergoing prior medical checkups, following a surge in cases linked to the viral trend.

Through the Ministry of Health (MoH), authorities expressed concern over the rising popularity of extended tree-hugging sessions, some lasting more than 72 hours, noting that the activity poses serious health risks if undertaken without proper physical assessment and preparation.

The challenge gained national attention after environmental enthusiast Truphena Muthoni completed a 72-hour tree-hugging marathon on December 11 last year, surpassing her earlier 48-hour record. Her feat earned widespread recognition and inspired similar initiatives across the country.

Since then, Kenyans in different regions have embraced the challenge for various causes. In Limuru, Kiambu County, a young man attempted the tree-hugging exercise in a bid to raise school fees for his Grade 10 brother. In Meru County, another participant hugged a tree as a form of protest against rampant banditry in the region. In Western Kenya, a young woman was rushed to Bugoma Hospital shortly after completing a 74-hour tree-hugging challenge, raising alarm among health authorities.

Speaking on Thursday, January 15, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni warned that prolonged tree hugging is a strenuous physical exercise that should not be taken lightly.

“I have seen people who are really in the mood for hugging trees. People are hugging trees; that is a strenuous exercise. Before doing the challenge, make sure you go for a check-up,” said Muthoni.

The PS revealed that the Ministry has already recorded several cases of individuals collapsing and being rushed to the hospital after engaging in prolonged tree hugging without medical assessment.

“We are not stopping anyone from participating in the tree-hugging challenge, but you must first undergo a medical checkup to ensure that you are medically fit,” she emphasized.

Muthoni further advised participants to undertake proper physical preparation and gradual training before attempting such endurance-based activities. She stressed that while advocacy for environmental protection, social causes, or awareness campaigns is commendable, it should not come at the expense of personal health.

The Ministry of Health urged the public, particularly young people, who have been at the forefront of the trend, to prioritize their well-being and seek professional medical advice before engaging in physically demanding challenges.

As the tree-hugging phenomenon continues to gain momentum nationwide, the government says it will continue monitoring its impact and sensitizing the public on safe participation to prevent avoidable health emergencies.

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