Health CAS Dr. Rashid Aman on Tuesday, July 21, lauded media celebrities who have revealed their Covid-19 status to the public.
Speaking during the daily Covid-19 presser, where he announced another 397 additional cases, Aman disclosed that the celebrities were helping to destigmatize the disease.
"I think it is a positive thing when people in high office, celebrities or those in media come out and pronounce their COVID-19 status," Aman stated.
Aman encouraged more individuals to share their experiences with the public as it would help to raise awareness of the disease.
"We need to encourage people coming out and state their case. It helps us to recognise that the disease can affect anyone and that if handled well, most of the people will recover from this disease," he added.
The CAS' plea came a day after JKLive show host Jeff Koinange announced that he had tested positive for the Covid-19 virus and was asymptomatic.
"Folks, just to let you know, I have tested positive for Covid-19. I'm doing Good. NO symptoms...and my Family is fine. All my close contacts have been informed.
"Right now I'm in self isolation. Many thanks to Royal Media Services Management for its Support. Stay safe and God Bless!" Koinange informed his followers on his social media pages.
Other media celebrities who have disclosed their Covid-19 status include; Pastor Robert Burale, KBC journalist Bonnie Musambi and Citizen TV journalist Stephen Letoo.
In a press briefing on June 20, 2020, Aman noted that the government had introduced interventions for affected Kenyans.
"There is stigma associated with the virus for patients, those recovered and frontline health workers," he stated.
The Ministry of Health has continued to warn that stigma only slows efforts in the fight against the virus.
The government was concerned that there would be a decline in the number of people who are willing to come forward and be tested for COVID-19 for fear of also being stigmatised.
