This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
On May 11, 2020, the Kenyan government announced a new directive requiring COVID-19 tests for patients seeking admission to public hospitals.
The decision was made in response to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country, which rose to 700 after 28 more people tested positive from 841 samples.
Health Chief Administrative Secretary Rashid Aman explained that the tests will be implemented as soon as possible, but issues of cost will need to be discussed, as the tests are not cheap.
"This will be implemented as soon as possible and issues of cost will have to be discussed because, as you are aware the tests are not cheap. The government will try the best we can to co-operate with private hospitals to make sure it is implemented across the country," he said.
Dr. Aman also noted that the increased number of deaths at home and those of patients who were confirmed to have the virus after their deaths has put many in danger.
He highlighted the case of two individuals who died at home in Mombasa County before their COVID-19 test results were out, including an 80-year-old female and a 62-year-old male who had a heart problem.
Dr. Aman also raised concerns over border crossing by members of communities living in counties such as Wajir and Mandera that are close to Somalia, urging them to be vigilant and report when they see people crossing from the other side so they can be tested.
