This archive report was first published on 9 June 2020.
Kenya's healthcare system is facing a new challenge as 19 healthcare workers have tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of infected healthcare workers to 72 since the first local case was reported.
According to the Ministry of Health, most of these healthcare workers have contracted the viral infection in their line of duty.
Chief Administrative Secretary Dr Rashid Aman noted that healthcare workers are 'perpetually at risk of contracting various infections, including Covid-19 as they discharge their duties.'
Dr Aman made the statement during a Covid-19 briefing where 127 new cases were reported, bringing the total confirmed incidents to 2,989.
The new cases were reported in various counties, including Busia, Uasin Gishu, Kwale, Nairobi, Mombasa, Machakos, Kiambu, Kilifi, and Bungoma.
Some 24 persons were discharged as three others succumbed to the virus, bringing total recoveries to 873 and Covid-19 deaths to 89.
The Ministry of Health has been working to bridge the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) by sourcing for the protective kits from local manufacturers.
