Covid-19 Vaccination Uptake in Elgeyo Marakwet
Elgeyo Marakwet County Residents Embrace Traditional Medication to Prevent Covid-19
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County turned to traditional medication as a means of preventing the virus. Despite the availability of modern medical interventions, many locals firmly believe in the power of traditional remedies to safeguard their health.
The county, located in the Rift Valley region of Kenya, is known for its rich cultural heritage and strong adherence to traditional practices. This deep-rooted belief in traditional medicine has led residents to rely on age-old remedies, passed down through generations, to combat various ailments. As the world grapples with the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Elgeyo Marakwet County residents have sought solace in their traditional healing practices.
These remedies, often derived from natural herbs and plants, are believed to boost the immune system and ward off the virus. One such traditional remedy gaining popularity is a concoction made from a mixture of herbs, including ginger, garlic, and lemon. Locals believe that this blend possesses
potent antiviral properties that can help prevent the transmission of Covid-19.
Additionally, other traditional practices such as steam inhalation with herbal infusions and the use of herbal teas are also being widely adopted. The preference for traditional medication can be attributed to a combination of factors, including cultural beliefs, limited access to modern healthcare
facilities, and the high cost of pharmaceutical drugs. Many residents in Elgeyo Marakwet County have limited financial resources and find traditional remedies more affordable and accessible.
However, health experts have expressed concerns about the reliance on traditional medicine as the sole means of preventing Covid-19. While some traditional remedies may have potential health benefits, they are not scientifically proven to be effective against the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Kenyan Ministry of Health have consistently emphasized the importance of following evidence-based guidelines and seeking medical advice from qualified professionals.
Dr. Jane Kipkoech, a local medical practitioner, highlights the need for a balanced approach. “While traditional medicine has its place in our culture, it is crucial to combine it with modern medical interventions,” she says. “We must educate our community about the importance of vaccination, wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining social distancing. “To bridge the gap between traditional and modern medicine, the county government has initiated programs to raise
awareness about the importance of evidence-based healthcare practices.
These initiatives aim to educate residents about the benefits of vaccination and the role of modern medicine in preventing and treating COVID-19. As the battle against COVID-19 continues, ElgeyoMarakwet County finds itself at a crossroads between tradition and modernity. While the preference for traditional medication remains strong, efforts are being made to strike a balance between cultural beliefs and scientific advancements. It is hoped that these endeavors will lead to a more comprehensive approach to healthcare, ensuring the well-being of the county’s residents in the face
of the ongoing pandemic.
Residents Embrace Modern Vaccination Against COVID-19
In a significant development in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County have wholeheartedly embraced modern vaccination methods. The county, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, has now become a shining example of
proactive participation in the global vaccination campaign.
Following the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccines in the county, health authorities launched an extensive awareness campaign to educate residents about the importance and safety of vaccination.
This initiative aimed to dispel any misconceptions and encourage the community to come forward and get vaccinated. The response from the residents has been overwhelming, with long queues forming outside vaccination centers across the county. People from all walks of life, including young adults, the
elderly, and healthcare workers, have eagerly taken their turn to receive the life-saving jab.
Speaking to local media, Dr. Jane Kipchumba, the County Health Director, expressed her delight at the positive
response from the community. She emphasized the importance of vaccination in curbing the spread of the virus and protecting the health and well-being of the residents.
“The enthusiasm shown by the people of Elgeyo Marakwet County is truly commendable. Vaccination is a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity and defeating this deadly virus. We are proud of our residents for taking this responsibility seriously,” Dr. Kipchumba stated. To ensure a smooth vaccination process, the county health department has set up multiple vaccination centers across the region. These centers are equipped with trained healthcare professionals who administer the vaccines while adhering to strict safety protocols.
Local leaders and community influencers have also played a vital role in encouraging vaccination. They have actively participated in public awareness campaigns, emphasizing the importance of vaccination as a collective effort to protect the community and revive the local economy. One resident, Mr. John Kibet, shared his experience after receiving the vaccine. “I was initially hesitant, but after learning about the benefits and safety of the vaccine, I decided to get vaccinated. It is a small step towards returning to normalcy and protecting our loved ones,” he said.
The county government has assured residents that the vaccination drive will continue until every eligible individual receives the vaccine. They have also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue adhering to COVID-19 safety measures, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing,
and maintaining good hand hygiene. As Elgeyo Marakwet County sets an example for other regions, the hope is that this positive momentum will continue, leading to a significant reduction in COVID-19 cases and a return to normalcy in the near future.
In conclusion, the residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County have embraced modern vaccination against COVID-19, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding their health and that of their community. With their proactive participation, the county is well on its way to overcoming the pandemic and emerging stronger than ever before 90% claim that they will support in future any vaccines that the government will introduce to cap any new disease, claiming that the misconception
against COVID 19 almost ruin the believe of getting vaccination.
Despite of that ,when the population was frozen in fear of spending sleepless nights at quarantine centers and other isolation facilities. It is during this time of panic that some of the persons entrusted to manage COVID-19 in Elgeyo Marakwet County used the opportunity to siphon funds meant for the
management of the world pandemic.
The Controller of Budget reported that the National Government, working through the Ministry of Health, had given counties a total of Sh13 billion for quarantine and isolation expenses. Amounts of Sh2.36 billion had been set aside for compensation for front-line healthcare employees. From the
total amount, Elgeyo Marakwet received a net cash of 91 million shillings including a Sh57.2 million national government grant and another Sh4.2 million and Sh30 million Kenya Devolution Support Programme (KDSP) donations from Denmark’s development cooperation (DANIDA) in 2020.
However, records show spending of nearly 6.5 million on non-covid-19 items.
40-inch TV sets at Sh240,000, a laundry machine (Sh1.4 million), stationery, and branding materials (Sh161,000) among other questionable expenses. The county built a Sh16 million oxygen plant at the Iten County Referral Hospital as part of its response to COVID–19–related complications.
A visit indicated that the oxygen plant was operationalized in January 2023.
“We are not yet there but we shall continue progressively to address all the challenges facing our health sector,” Elgeyo Marakwet Governor says.
County executive committee member for health Michael Kibiwott says he was yet to receive reports on COVID-19 spending in the county.
“I have no sufficient information on the allegations of misappropriation of funds. The previous
administration was in charge of managing the Covid-19 funds. We are a transparent department and we ask authorities to probe claims of misuse during the Covid-19 period.” Kibiwott said.
He however indicated that the county was generating its own oxygen after the operationalization of the plant established thanks to the Covid-19 funds.
The health CECM said the oxygen plant supplies oxygen to all sub-county health facilities.
“We no longer rely on neighboring counties for oxygen. Through support by partners, we have now advanced the oxygen systems through more cylinders and connecting each bed with oxygen and we no longer struggle to get oxygen to a bed during an emergency,” Kibiwott explained.
He said support with partners has helped the county secure more oxygen storage cylinders to store medical oxygen from its plant in the last year.
BY;SHEILLAH ROP.
EMOO FM CORRESPODENT
Post Author
