Kenya: Virus claims 12 more lives, new cases over 1,270

ANKARA (AA) – Kenya reported 12 more COVID-19 deaths and 1,279 new cases on Wednesday.

The country’s overall count now stands at 116,310, with the death toll now over 1,930 and some 89,000 recoveries, according to the latest Health Ministry data.

“This situation continues to deteriorate as more people continue to test positive,” said Senator Mutahi Kagwe, a top health official.

He urged “counties to have all their ambulances on the ready for use in evacuating any severe cases,” the Health Ministry said on Twitter.

“It is important that we all adhere to the measures in place to stem the tide of the rising cases. This includes strict adherence to public order and curfew measures as per the directives of the president,” Kagwe said.

He reiterated the need for counties to regularly assess virus containment measures and enforce rules and penalties.

“Law enforcement agencies must ensure observation of the directives guiding social events so there is no feasting at funerals and that family members do not exceed 100,” Kagwe was quoted as saying.

He said funeral homes and parlors must “strictly observe the 72-hour period for release of bodies.”

County officials “should ensure the fumigation of all public transport vehicles,” the official added.

Kagwe said the country’s COVID-19 task force must “ensure that home- based isolation and management is enhanced,” while hospitals should expand intensive care facilities and aim for optimal use of resources in the fight against the pandemic.