KMA urges pregnant, lactating mums to get COVID-19 vaccine

The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has issued an advisory to Kenyans in response to an increase in COVID-19 infections linked to the delta variant.

The association recommends that pregnant or breastfeeding women get the COVID-19 vaccines because the benefits outweigh the risks.

The KMA said in a statement on Sunday that data shows that pregnant women are more likely to have severe Covid disease, including an increased risk of ICU admission and death, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.

“Still birth and preterm birth is more likely (compared to pregnant women without Covid 19) the statement from KMA explains “ Pregnant women with underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk of severe illness” 

The association also expressed concern about the rising number of infections in Kenyan schools, urging the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to strictly enforce the implementation of Covid 19 management protocols in schools.

“Rising infections have led to school closures, absenteeism and a general state of anxiety in the education sector,” the association added. 

KMA insists that all schools have comprehensive, professionally managed healthcare systems in place, as well as appropriate referral mechanisms and isolation facilities for suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases.

At the same time, the association urged Kenyans to follow COVID-19 protocols, especially now that passenger services have resumed full operations.

“KMA urges all passengers to strictly follow all the laid down procedures, with correct masking and use of hand sanitizer as key components,” the association said “he transport sector managers should ensure the safety of all travelers by enforcing all laid down protocols.”

Concerning public gatherings, the KMA recommends that all public rallies be deferred until Kenya achieves a population vaccination rate of at least 60%.