Kenya Faces Shortage of ICU Beds Amid Third COVID-19 Wave

Doctors have warned that there is a shortage of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds across the country amid a third COVID-19 wave.

Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) secretary-general Chibanzi Mwachonda called on members of the public and leaders to adhere to COVID-19 protocols to save medics.

“The rising numbers of COVID-19 infections have not spared healthcare workers. 10 doctors are currently admitted to various hospitals yet we are at a point where we need many doctors in the counties,” he said.

He said the union was concerned about the laxity in adherence to COVID-19 measures among Kenyans, warning that the rising number of infections could overwhelm the already stretched healthcare system as evidenced by the shortage of ICU beds and medics to handle serious COVID-19 cases.

“The counties are the weakest link to the COVID-19 response. We urge the Ministry of Health and National Treasury to fast-track the contract renewal process of the 156 health workers hired to work in isolation and treatment centers across the country. County governments should address grievances at the workplace to avoid industrial unrest and provision of PPEs,” he added.