The Ministry of Health now claims that 20% of Kenyan adults have yet to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, amid growing concern about the country’s sixth wave.
During a press briefing on Monday at which mobile COVID-19 Vaccination clinics were launched in Nairobi, ministry officials expressed concern over the rising infections, blaming it on laxity by Kenyans.
“Twenty per cent of the adult population have not received even a single dose of vaccination… take that one step and leave your house for 5 mins and get vaccinated,” PS Susan Mochache implored Kenyans.
According to Dr. Ouma Oluga, the Nairobi Metropolitan Director of Health Services, 3.2 million people in Nairobi have so far received their jab.
Nairobi is leading in COVID-19 cases, while Kiambu, Laikipia, Garissa and Machakos are among the hardest hit by the sixth wave.
Additionally, 3.9% of those that have been affected by COVID are healthcare workers
“With the weather being what it is, if you have flu-like symptoms, visit a health facility to get tested. It is important for all of us to be vaccinated. It is the only tool to prevent deaths. We have lost over 5000 lives,” said Dr. Oluga.
Currently, 4 people are in ICU battling the virus, while 118 are inwards in different hospitals in the country.
The ministry said it is targeting to vaccinate all adults by December 2022.
“The Ministry of Health is targeting to vaccinate all adults by the end of December 2022 and 50% of the teenage population aged 15-17 years against COVID-19,” noted PS Mochache.
At the same time, those fully vaccinated have been urged to get a booster shot.
“I urge all those who are unvaccinated to make use of this opportunity and get vaccinated at a health facility or mobile clinic near them. Those who are fully vaccinated should also get their booster shot six months after the last jab,” she added.
Article first published on https://www.citizen.digital/news/20pc-of-kenyan-adults-yet-to-receive-covid-jab-moh-n300967
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