This archive report was first published on 25 May 2020.
As of May 20, 2020, Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS) has conducted free Covid-19 mass testing in the city, with over 3,100 residents tested. The 11-day exercise, which was launched on May 13, 2020, aims to identify and isolate Covid-19 cases in the city.
NMS Chief Health Officer Dr. Ouma Oluga stated that the turnout has been impressive, with the goal of testing over 1,000 residents daily. The exercise has already seen significant progress, with 703 people tested in Eastleigh, 427 in Dagoretti and Embakasi East, and 1,002 in Utawala in Embakasi East.
Dr. Oluga emphasized that the exercise is focused on informal settlements, where access to water, proper sanitation, physical distancing, and restrictions on movement are challenging. He noted that the initial results were available within 48 hours, but due to the high volume of tests and samples from other parts of the country, the results are now taking slightly longer to process.
The testing centers are strategically located in various areas of the city, including Westlands, Langata, Kibera, Kasarani, and Mathare. The exercise will continue until May 31, 2020, with the goal of identifying and isolating Covid-19 cases to prevent community transmission.
