This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
Kenya has recorded 52 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the total number of infections to 1161, according to Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.
Speaking in Machakos County, CS Kagwe said the fresh infections were detected out of the 2567 samples tested in the last 24 hours, with at least 55,074 people having been tested since the coronavirus was confirmed in the country.
He noted that 5 more people have been discharged, bringing the total number of recoveries to 380, while fatalities remain at 50.
Out of the tested cases, Nairobi had the highest number with 23 new cases, Mombasa recorded 7, and Busia 7 cases.
CS Kagwe expressed concern over the growing number of cases in Busia, a border county, and urged the county government to be extra vigilant.
He also announced that the National government recognizes the efforts of County Governments in responding to the Covid-19 pandemic and is working towards strengthening their capacity to mitigate the disease.
CS Kagwe congratulated health workers in Machakos, saying the government is pleased with their general health and containment measures, and has rolled out training for 7 health care workers in each county.
He added that the government is supporting county governments by employing 5000 community health workers, with the process almost complete.
CS Kagwe warned Machakos residents to remain vigilant, saying even with only 3 cases, the county is at risk due to its transport corridor status.
On the issue of PPEs, CS Kagwe said Kenya no longer requires to import PPEs, as local manufacturers are able to produce quality protective gears that have been approved by KEBS.
Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua said health care is not a luxury and that proper health is a right to the people, adding that Corona is real and that the county supports the national government's measures.
He also announced that the county will not allow trucks to stop in the county for long, and that truck drivers will only be allowed to stop for 30 minutes before moving on, provided they have a coronavirus certificate.
Published on May 22, 2020
