Let's embrace those who have recovered from Covid-19

Daily statistics from the Health ministry continue to show a rise in the number of Covid-19 infections. On the positive side, however, we continue to register recoveries and mercifully we have had few deaths so far.

But while the positive aspects buoy our spirits and give us hope that we shall overcome as long as we stay within certain guidelines, a few of those who tested positive and later recovered now contend with stigma. In Nakuru, a woman who tested negative despite suspicion by neighbours that she was positive, has been ostracised by relatives and friends to the point that they burned her only source of income.

Yesterday, Dr Mercy Mwangangi, Health CAS, decried the unfortunate incidences of stigmatisation of those who have recovered and urged society to accept them. Indeed, that should be the case because coronavirus is just a disease like any other. By now, we should have learned from the path that HIV has travelled. Where before it drew heavy stigma, today HIV is hardly remarkable.

Nevertheless, we cannot run away from the fact that the current stigma has its roots in the manner the government has handled the matter. From burying the dead within hours under police guard, limiting those in funerals to 15 people, and taking anybody found without a mask to quarantine facilities gives the impression that those who have contracted the disease must be kept away from society.

The measures, including wearing face masks, sanitising hands and keeping social distance are well-intentioned and necessary. The problem is the execution, and especially the manner in which police officers go about it.