Hennessy distances itself from Sonko’s claims

French cognac distiller Hennessy this week distanced itself from Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s claims that their drink can help in killing the Coronavirus.

Through a statement, the company stressed that no alcoholic beverage can protect one from the virus, adding that regular washing of hands with soap and water should be practiced instead.

“Hennessy would like to stress that the consumption of our brand or any other alcoholic beverage does not protect against the virus.

“In line with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health of Kenya (MOH), Hennessy advises on washing hands regularly with soap and water or hydro-alcoholic gels, wearing face masks, practicing social distancing and staying at home,” read the statement in part.

This is after Sonko justified his donation of 150ml bottles of Hennessy alongside food packs.

“Kenyans under lockdown in Nairobi will receive150ml bottles of Hennessy, masks and hand sanitizers in the food pack, the package which we give to our people to keep themselves safe during this period.

"We have been giving some small bottles of hennessy in the food pack that we have been distributing. I think research from the World Health Organization (WHO) has shown that alcohol plays a strong part in killing the coronavirus," Sonko said.

Ureport would like to stress that the only sure way to keep the virus at bay is to regularly wash hands using running water and soap and sanitizing.

The Ministry of Health has also instructed Kenyans to wear masks in public places and to avoid handshakes.

Social distancing is also key. Where possible, stay at home to avoid contracting the virus.