This archive report was first published on 9 May 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread, a worrying trend has emerged at Kiambu Level 5 hospital in Kenya. Relatives of patients admitted to the hospital have been disobeying the social distance directive, putting themselves and others at risk of infection.
According to a report by KNA, visitors to the hospital have been flocking to the entry gate, disregarding instructions to maintain social distancing. The hospital administration had previously reduced the number of visitors allowed per patient to one, in an effort to contain the spread of the virus.
Speaking to KNA, hospital administrator Eston Mbuthia acknowledged the issue and promised to work with the security officer to ensure that visitors observe social distancing. Medical superintendent Dr. Patrick Nyaga explained that the hospital had taken the decision to reduce the number of visitors to protect patients, who are already vulnerable due to their existing illnesses.
"It is essential that a patient is only seen by one visitor at a time," Dr. Nyaga emphasized. The hospital has also relocated the casualty section to a tented area, where patients can be treated while maintaining social distance.
By Lydia Shiloya
