Every person who handles food in a commercial setting — cooks, waitstaff, food packers, market vendors, and butchery workers — is legally required to hold a valid Medical Certificate of Fitness under the Public Health Act. The certificate confirms that the holder is free from communicable diseases, including tuberculosis, typhoid, and skin infections.
Issuing Authority: County Public Health Department / Approved Government Health Facility
| Certificate Type | Fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Initial medical examination and certificate | 500 – 1,500 |
| Annual renewal (re-examination) | 500 – 1,500 |
| Chest X-ray (where required) | 500 – 1,000 |
| Stool and urine tests (where required) | 300 – 800 |
| Certificate replacement (lost) | 200 – 500 |
The certificate is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Employers are legally responsible for ensuring that all food-handling employees hold valid certificates. Public health officers may inspect these during routine premises visits.
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