Five years post-COVID-19, Kenya reflects on progress yet acknowledges gaps in healthcare preparedness. Experts call for enhanced coordination, investment in healthcare, and public awareness to better prepare for future health emergencies. Economic impacts continue to affect small businesses, prompting shifts in personal health priorities among citizens. The government outlines key readiness interventions amid new health threats emerging.
On March 12, 2019, Kenya reported its first case of COVID-19, initiating a series of unprecedented challenges both socially and economically. As the country reflects on the five years since this pivotal event, experts highlight significant progress made but also identify lingering gaps in health crisis preparedness.
Dr. James Mwangi, an infectious disease specialist at Kenyatta National Hospital, emphasizes how the pandemic revealed deficiencies in the healthcare system. He noted improvements in disease surveillance and emergency responses but underscored the necessity for better coordination between national and county governments for future pandemic responses.
While the World Health Organisation (WHO) commended Kenya for its effective vaccination campaigns and public health measures, it reiterated the need for ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure. Experts stress that ongoing investment in research and early detection systems is crucial to prepare for future pandemics, as they are inevitable.
The pandemic also inflicted severe economic impacts, particularly on small businesses. Entrepreneur John Kamau recounted the struggles faced during lockdowns, noting that many businesses were unable to recover fully due to persistent inflation and supply chain disruptions.
Many Kenyans shifted their perspectives on health and crisis preparedness during this period. Resident Faith Atieno acknowledged the changes in her health priorities, attributing her new diligence regarding health precautions and emergency savings to the lessons learned during the pandemic.
Moving forward, experts admonish that Kenya must convert the lessons learned from COVID-19 into lasting preparedness strategies, encompassing healthcare funding and public awareness campaigns. Integrating pandemic preparedness into national security planning has also been recommended to counteract future health emergencies effectively.
Dr. Patrick Amoth, the Director General for Health, has outlined various interventions to enhance preparedness, including activating the Public Health Emergency Operations Center and strengthening emergency operations at both national and county levels. Currently, measures are in place for screening high-risk entry points to prevent new outbreaks, emphasizing the importance of readiness before the next global health crisis strikes.
In conclusion, as Kenya marks five years since its first COVID-19 case, significant strides have been taken in healthcare improvements and public health initiatives. However, gaps in preparedness and response remain critical concerns. The emphasis on learning from past experiences and investing in sustainable health infrastructure will be pivotal in safeguarding the country against future health crises.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
