This archive report was first published on 8 August 2020.
With over 18 million confirmed Covid-19 cases worldwide, Kenya and Africa have a unique opportunity to learn from the pandemic and adapt to its challenges. As of August 8, 2020, Kenya has reported 23,000 confirmed cases, with a population of 45 million citizens. The country has tested only a small portion of its citizens, indicating that the actual number of infections could be much higher.
One of the key lessons from the pandemic is that science is not always clear-cut. Scientists have been back and forth on various aspects of the virus, including re-infection possibility and the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri) has also been inconsistent in its projections of Kenya's infections. As a result, it is essential to add common sense to the science and understand the 'why' behind the protocols.
Another crucial lesson is that Covid-19 is not going away anytime soon, and there are no easy fixes. Even the much-talked-about vaccine is at least 18 months away from Africa, which means the virus could have decimated the continent by then. This reality necessitates a shift in our approach, focusing on living with the virus rather than trying to completely control it.
Given the limited resources and capacity to manage the virus curatively, it is essential to prepare for dealing with it when it comes. This involves boosting our immunity through a balanced diet and recognizing that we will be exposed to the virus. The government's urgent responsibility is to get the economy back on track, enabling us to raise private resources to fight the virus.
As we navigate the pandemic, it is essential to prioritize our health and well-being. By understanding the lessons from the pandemic and adapting to its challenges, we can survive and thrive in the face of this global health crisis.
