Gov't Addresses Surge In Respiratory Illnesses

The Ministry of Health has dismissed reports that the increase in the number of respiratory illnesses is due to COVID-19. 

In a statement on Thursday, March 28, Acting Director General for Health Patrick Amoth said the upsurge is attributed to the influenza virus. 

He noted that the Ministry of Health has been monitoring the emergence and spread of flu and other pathogens of national, regional, and global concern nationwide through event-based surveillance, integrated facility surveillance, and mortality surveillance noting that none of the pathogens is linked to COVID-19.

“We wish to inform the public that the current increase in numbers is in line with the expected cases of influenza at this time of the year and there has been no significant changes in the number of hospitalizations and deaths reported,” remarked Amoth.

The Health Director General pointed out that influenza infections are typically self-limiting but may result in severe disease or death, especially in people at high risk.

Amoth advised members of the public to avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially with respiratory symptoms. He urged those infected to limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

“Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it,” Amoth stated.

He also urged Kenyans to wash their hands often with soap and water, avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth, and to use face masks when in public spaces.

Additionally, he said Kenyans should get influenza vaccines if possible and clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with viruses that cause flu.

“Special attention should be applied to cases showing signs of breathing difficulties and suspected infections among children and the aged, pregnant women and among people with coexisting conditions such as cancer, TB, HIV, Diabetes, Heart diseases, among others,” Amoth added.