Just a day after it was put on the spot for allegedly
conducting unauthorized Covid-19 tests, Lang’ata Hospital has come out to give
its side of the story.
Through a statement to newsrooms, the hospital rubbished
reports that it was carrying out Coronavirus tests, saying it consulted KEMRI
on the possibility of referring patients.
“Over the past few months, the hospital has received
numerous enquiries from its patients and other members of the public on the
availability of COVID-19 testing services at the hospital laboratory.
“We have always advised them that we do not conduct such
tests at our hospital laboratory, and we have indeed never conducted any such
tests,” read the statement in part.
Adding: “The patients would report to Langata Hospital where
they would be processed and advised on safety procedures by qualified medical
personnel.
“They would then be driven to KEMRI for testing then back to
the hospital after the testing in the hospital ambulance. The ambulance was
always fumigated after each trip. No COVID-19 tests were ever done nor samples taken
at Langata Hospital.”
Earlier this week, KEMRI urged the public to make formal
requests if they need Covid-19 sample collection services.
KEMRI reiterated that walk-ins to its facilities will not be
allowed although it will continue to conduct sample testing in all designated
laboratories.