The Kisii government on Wednesday said 24 people of 658 Covid-19 cases have died in three weeks.
Health executive Sarah Omache said a significant number had underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Addressing the press in her office, Omache said reopening the economy has greatly contributed to the second wave of the disease.
“It is unfortunate we have lost 24 people in three weeks. We send our condolences to the families," she said.
The executive said that 6,144 contacts had been traced, saying families of those who have recovered should not be discriminated against.
Before Mashujaa Day celebrations at Gusii Stadium, Omache said 146 Covid cases were recorded between October 15 and 26.
“We have six patients in our isolation centre at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, while 62 are being managed by healthcare workers at home," the executive said.
Home care is the best way to manage many cases, she said. Most patients come from Kitutu Chache constituency because of its proximity to the town's central business district.
“I am appealing to our people with underlying conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure to be extra careful when going about their business because they are at higher risk," Omache said.
She said many residents suffer from diabetes and high blood pressure because they have no longer eat healthier indigenous foods. Instead they eat junk food that adds weight and contributes to lifestyle diseases.
“I urge not only Kisii residents but all Kenyans to eat foods with less fat and to exercise to stay healthy," Omache said.
She said the cases of diabetes had increased from 5,277 in 2016 to 10,612 this year, as recorded at the at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital.
“I am urging all stakeholders to sensitise people about the importance of healthy lifestyles," the Health executive said.
Omache said 31 diabetes patients out of 174 admitted to hospital died last year, while 18 out of 107 patient died.
(Edited by V. Graham)
