14 More Die as 761 Test Positive For Covid-19

Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe addresses the media from the Mbagathi District Hospital on Friday, March 6, 2020.
Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe addresses the media from the Mbagathi District Hospital on Friday, March 6, 2020.
Simon Kiragu
KENYANS.CO.KE

Kenya has recorded 761 more Covid-19 positive cases in the last 24 hours as the country's total caseload rises to 52,612.

In a press briefing held on Thursday, October 29, in Mombasa, Health CS Mutahi Kagwe announced that 4,830 samples had been tested over the same period bringing the total number of samples tested so far to 678,000.

He also noted that 1,084 patients have been admitted following Covid-19 infections with 35 being in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 14 on supplementary oxygen.

Regrettably, 14 patients succumbed to the disease bringing the total number of deaths to 964. 

Medics conducting random screening for Covid-19 symptoms at National Archives, Nairobi on Saturday, March 21, 2020
Medics conducting random screening for Covid-19 symptoms at National Archives, Nairobi on Saturday, March 21, 2020
File

The CS indicated that the success of the health sector depended on how well the counties worked together with the national government to combat the pandemic.

"The success of the health sector as one of the government’s Big 4 Agenda is pegged on the collaboration between the national and county governments.

"We must not forget our responsibilities, we must enhance access to health services for all Kenyans," he stated.

He, however, hailed counties for hitting milestones in the fight against Covid-19 virus, noting that some had achieved the 300 bed capacity as directed by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“My plea to you as the drivers of health in your counties, particularly those who have not attained these targets is that you deal with this matter as expeditiously as you can… please do not let your county down," he added.

He further noted that the positivity rate has been on the rise from 13% in July to 15% on Thursday, October 29.

He further urged individuals who have tested positive, but have yet not registered any sign of sickness to be taken care of at home, where they can heal also faster. 

The CS also noted that most positive cases originated from crowded areas and urged Kenyans to visit hotels and eateries that have their services outside.

"It is still clear that the spread of the disease is largely from areas where people are crowded, especially in indoor entertainment areas. If you must to an eatery go to one that is outdoors," he stated.

A medical personnel holding a Covid-19 virus test kit.
File image of a Covid-19 testing kit.
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