This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
Kenya's recent easing of coronavirus restrictions may be short-lived, as the country grapples with a surge in COVID-19 cases. According to the World Health Organisation, a return to lockdown rules may be the only solution for countries experiencing continued surges in the disease outbreak.
As of this week, Kenya has reported 1,562 new cases, bringing the total number of cases to 3,941. This is a significant increase from the 1,471 cases reported between March 12 and May 27.
With the numbers expected to peak in the coming month, there are fears that Kenya may go back to being shut down to contain the spread of the virus. President Uhuru Kenyatta had announced the lifting of restrictions, citing the country's preparedness to handle the virus.
However, the President also warned that should the situation deteriorate, the restrictions would be reimposed. 'Should the situation deteriorate and pose a challenge to our health infrastructure, it shall be 'clawed back'. In the next 21 days, we shall study patterns of interactions and the spread of the disease,' he said.
Dr Michael Ryan, Executive Director of WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, echoed the President's sentiments, saying that a return to lockdown rules may be the only option for countries experiencing continued surges in the disease outbreak.
