Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) has donated an assortment of screening equipment to Bungoma County government to facilitate containing of spread of contagious diseases at the border point.
Receiving the items at the Kenya Red Cross office in Kanduyi Sub-County, Bungoma County, Health and Sanitation County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Mrs Carolyne Makali appreciated KRCS for their support affirming that it will go a long way in strengthening the county preparedness at Lwakhakha border point on the M POX disease.
Makali noted that Lwakhakha border point within the county had been put on alert since among the places that experience high volume of cross border movements.
“We must remain vigilant and ensure that our systems are ready to manage any public health threats.” She noted
Makali further noted that the county is sensitising healthcare workers and citizens, calling on Bungoma residents to embrace screening and also go to the hospital if they experience any signs of body rashes, fever and flu now that the county is located along the highway and bordering Uganda.
She noted that early detection and swift containment are essential in preventing the spread of infectious diseases like MPOX.
Bungoma County KRCS coordinator Margaret Wanyonyi stated that as a humanitarian organization and the procurement of equipment was propelled by the Ministry as a way of preparedness.
Wanyonyi further appreciated the cordial relationship with the Department of Health and are available to render support whenever needed.
The items donated by KRCS include, One 100 seater tent, 400 pieces of safety gowns, 200 pieces of face shield, 25 pieces of heavy duty.
The red cross coordinator added that other items included 10 packs of examination gloves, 40 pieces of biohazard bags, two pieces of 10 litre hand wash stations, five pieces 50 litres hand wash stations, 30 pieces of infra-red thermo guns among other items.
In attendance were Reproductive health coordinator Milsen Kiplai and County Public Health Officer Mr. Ken Kundu.
By Douglas Mudambo
