39 contacts of priest in self-isolation

Dozens who attended a funeral in Ugunja, Siaya County, where a Catholic priest diagnosed with Covid-19 mingled with mourners, are among 39 people in Nandi County advised to stay in isolation.

According to county health officials, a surveillance team has successfully tracked down the residents and advised them and their immediate family members to self-isolate for 14 to 21 days.

Those under quarantine are being monitored by county health officials.

Ruth Koech, the Nandi County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of health said family members, the elderly and patients with chronic diseases have been advised not to get close to the people in isolation.

“We have been informed by the public through the county established hotline of people who recently arrived from Qatar, Dubai, US and Italy, and upon their arrival did not observe health measures of compulsory quarantine hence the need to enforce it,” she revealed.

She added that they have embarked on regular testing in the county health centres of all patients seeking medical treatment as a move to detect Covid-19.

“Isolation wards are ready in our health centres including Kapsabet Hospital, Nandi Hills and if need arises, Mosoriot and Kabiyet health institutions will also be facilitated to accommodate any reported cases,” she said.

The CEC said measures have are in place, including distribution of Personal Protection Equipment (PPEs) for health officials among them masks, gowns and hand sanitizers to be used during random checks to curb any risks of infections.

“We have no Covid-19 case in our county so far but we have already trained over 200 County health officers on how to handle tested cases along with three doctors specialized in viral diseases,” said Koech.

She stated that the county has implemented elaborate health regulations including closure of night clubs and entertainment joints and open-air markets indefinitely.