Patient isolated in Kericho tests negative for coronavirus

A patient who had been isolated at Londiani Sub-county Hospital in Kericho after exhibiting COVID-19 like symptoms on Monday evening has tested negative for the disease.

Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony said the patient was suffering from diabetes and not Covid-19 caused by the new coronavirus.

In a press briefing at Kericho Sub-county Hospital on Wednesday, Chepkwony asked the residents to stay calm saying the county was adequately prepared to deal with the situation.

He said the county government had procured additional personal protective equipment including face masks, sanitizers and disposable gowns for use by the health officers.

The Governor further announced a suspension of open air markets and food hawking to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission.

Chepkwony noted that hotels, nightclubs and restaurants will not be closed down, instead urging the management to ensure the high standards of hygiene are put in place.

He further announced a ban on all regular visits by relatives and friends of patients at public hospitals.

The Governor directed a mandatory screening of all persons entering all hospitals, adding that hand washing and sanitizing facilities be provided at strategic points of entry.

He also called for the setting up of water points in markets and bus termini to promote hand washing as recommended by the World Health Organization.

Meanwhile, Governor Chepkwony said the county has established a toll free line and a call centre to ease reporting of suspected cases by members of the public for further direction.

The toll free line 0800 0720 464 is open and members of public can call to report any symptoms such as high fever, cough, sneezing or
respiratory difficulties or to make any inquiries they may have on the coronavirus.