Coronavirus is now a global emergency. Fighting it, according to the World Health Organisation, now requires a concerted global action. Last week, Kenya had a scare after a student based in China returned home with flu-like symptoms and had to be quarantined at KNH as tests were conducted. The results came out negative.
The death toll in China has so far surpassed the 250 mark, with 25 countries reporting cases. China has had the highest infections and casualties and several countries including Kenya have suspended flights from and to the Asian country to minimise the risks. So far, no case has been reported in Africa, but should it happen, it would be a big scare given the technological and logistical inability by developing counties to manage the virus. In the wake of this crisis, we urge concerned government agencies to be more vigilant. The Ministry of Health should particularly pull all stops to keep Kenyans safe.
Immigration and health officials should ensure all points of entry are facilitated to thoroughly screen people coming into the country, not just at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. All international airports and border points should be closely monitored. Again, it would be necessary to do public sensitisation as a means of raising vigilance. The public needs to know the flu-like symptoms of the virus. Nothing should be left to chance.
With prevailing weather conditions that support airborne viral infections, extra education and care will go a long way in ensuring Kenyans stay safe. After all, prevention is better than cure. But as the world mobilises action against the virus, China is still part of the global community and shouldn’t be left to its own devises. Countries have to work together towards a solution.
Meanwhile, as we laud the government for suspending Kenya Airways flights to and from China, we should question the wisdom behind the continued services by China Southern Airlines which still has direct daily flights between Guangzhou and Nairobi. The state should guard against glitches that could predispose Kenyans to risks.
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