This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced plans to open up the economy once health facilities in the counties are prepared to handle an influx of COVID-19 cases. A key requirement for this decision is that each county has a minimum of 300 isolation beds.
While some counties have managed to meet this quota, others are struggling to keep up. To address this, there is a growing reliance on home-based care, where those with mild symptoms are encouraged to isolate at home until it is necessary to be hospitalized.
With cases rising to over 150 per day, home-based care is becoming increasingly important. However, this shift also raises concerns about the standardised procedures for home-based care, the affordability and accessibility of necessary items, and the need for hotlines for caregivers to contact nurses or doctors.
Women will play a crucial role in home-based care, as they will be responsible for administering procedures and providing mental support. This is particularly challenging, given that many women have lost their jobs or had to take on additional domestic responsibilities due to the pandemic.
As the debate continues over when schools and colleges will reopen, counties are considering using these facilities as isolation centers. However, this may lead to a reduction in the number of people in quarantine, leaving many without a clear plan for treatment if there is a spike in infections.
Ultimately, home-based care will be essential in saving many lives and reducing the burden on healthcare facilities. By providing standardised procedures, accessible resources, and support for caregivers, we can ensure that those affected by COVID-19 receive the care they need in the comfort of their own homes.
