The Murang’a government has closed all bars in two villages in Gatanga subcounty over increased Covid-19 infections.
The villages have recorded about 50 infections in the last two weeks and have lost seven people to the disease.
Health executive Joseph Mbai said even those placed under home-based care are unable to seclude themselves to protect their families. Other villagers have been seen loitering in shopping centres instead of isolating.
In a letter dated July 31 and addressed to Gatanga deputy county commissioner, Mbai further directed that all eateries strictly follow the guidelines given by the Ministry of Health. Churches were asked to ensure they allow only a third of their capacity.
Mbai said he is consulting the county security team to enforce the directive and ensure the containment measures are followed.
Those found without face masks and traders who do not provide soap and water or sanitiser in their shops will be arrested.
He said the number of patients admitted to Murang’a County Referral Hospital has increased in the last two weeks from 10 to 31. Among them are two patients from the two villages.
“This is why I issued that directive to stem the spread of the virus. We are asking the people of Murang’a to take extra care because the numbers are soaring,” Mbai said.
He said the county government will not allow people to continue idling in shopping centres without taking the required care as infections spread.
Mbai said social places cause the spread of the virus as people relax and remove their masks without washing their hands.
He further noted that operators in the transport sectors will be compelled to enforce social distancing, which many have been disregarding.
Burials will be conducted within three days and only 50 people will be allowed to attend.
