Gov’t tracing 145 people who have interacted with coronavirus patients

Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe says the government has contacted 145 individuals who are believed to have come into contact with patients who have tested positive for the coronavirus.

According to the Health CS, the 145 people are being traced and are expected to undergo screening and testing for COVID-19.

Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Kagwe said the government has so far screened over 600,000 people at various entry points including airports.

He pointed out that 173 individuals had been tested for the new coronavirus, with only seven testing positive as of Thursday, March 19, 2020.

The CS added that over the last 24 hours, eight persons had been screened and tested, with all the cases turning negative, adding that the said individuals are being processed to be discharged to go home

“So this is good news that today we are not reporting an increase in the positive cases we have in the country. We are however continuing with  tests and contact tracing and we have already contacted 145 people who have come into contact with persons who have tested positive for the virus,” said CS Kagwe.

He appealed to Kenyans to remain vigilant and maintain high levels of hygiene in order to break the chain for the transmission of the coronavirus.