More women than men worried about Covid-19-survey

More women than men are worried about getting infected with Covid-19.

According to a report released yesterday by Trends and Insights for Africa (TIFA) dubbed 'Covid-19: Stigma and Mental Health', the study also revealed that Kenyans are worried that the worst is yet to come. 

Although men largely make a majority of cases recorded in the country, it appears more women are worried about catching the disease. Generally, though, the majority of the public is concerned about catching the viral disease.

Of the 268 cases confirmed yesterday, for instance, 160 were male while female were 108. 

According to the poll, 65 per cent of Kenyans are a very worried lot while 16 per cent are not bothered at all about contracting the disease. Females represent a big percentage of the worried lot at 69 per cent, while males stand at 61 per cent.

According to the poll, 92 per cent of Kenyans do not know anyone who has tested positive of coronavirus meaning only 8 per cent know a friend, relative or neighbour who has been infected.

Cases of stigma since the first case was reported in March have spread fast towards people who have recovered from the disease and those released from quarantine centres.

Despite the stigmatisation, at least 79 per cent of Kenyans would still desire to be tested if the tests are offered for free within their neighbourhoods, said TIFA managing director Maggie Ireri. 

Sadly, 79 per cent of Kenyans are feeling irritable, depressed and hopeless and 78 per cent feel they have been pushed to the edge leading to 86 per cent of Kenyans feeling an urge to use a substance to calm them down.