Mombasa, Kwale to fumigate streets in bid to curb virus

Nairobi Health workers fumigate Haile selassie Avenue in Nairobi using space forging machine to curb the spread of the coronavirus in Kenya. [Edward Kiplimo,Standard]

The Mombasa and Kwale county governments on Sunday embarked on mass fumigation of all social places to contain spread of the novel coronavirus.

The exercise will see markets, prisons, bus parks and busy streets decontaminated before end of the week.

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya said his administration was taking the lead in ensuring public service vehicles are cleaned to keep the deadly pandemic at bay.

“We have kicked off disinfection of matatus, taxis, boda bodas and tuk-tuks, and we call upon all operators to cooperate,” said Mr Mvurya.

Health Executive Francis Gwama said the county will embark on fumigation of busy areas on a regular basis.

"We have started this exercise in Kwale town and it is going to take place in all the four sub-counties. We urge the people to support our initiatives to contain the spread of the virus by adhering to all health regulations,” said Mr Gwama.

Mombasa Health Executive Hazel Koitaba said the countywide disinfection campaign was part of preventative measures to contain the virus.

"When we started, we deployed manual means. We have moved a notch higher and are now using fire brigade personnel who have equipment that ensures a larger area is covered in a short period of time," said Ms Koitaba.

She added: "We wish to advice all Mombasa residents to ensure that they follow government directives and avoid touching public surfaces, continue washing their hands regularly, and avoid touching their faces." [Philip Mwakio]