Thread by @JerotichSeii

Just to let you know that I tested positive for #COVID19 today despite all the usual precautions.

I am sharing this with you because we must fight stigma. Also, reading the stories & seeing the wider lack of govt preparedness, we really are on our own.

I will keep you posted.

2. I am exceedingly touched by the outpouring of support and love from all you. I can hardly believe it. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.

It goes to show that we have the ability and the HUMANITY to carry one another through these difficult #COVID19 times.

3. I am NOT asymptomatic. I went into self-quarantine on 14 July (at home) when I realised that my symptoms were worsening:

-extreme fatigue
-bad headaches + off/on fever
-no sense of smell/taste
-red, sore eyes
-dry cough (developed later)

I kept hoping it was just a homa.

4. By 20 July, I knew I had to take a #COVID19 test. I had an appointment scheduled for 22nd at the impeccably professional IOM (my former employer) Clinic where results are out the same day @IOMRONairobi @AbdikerM.

I then rang my doctor who now has me on a cocktail of meds.

5. So, without counting the cost of the privilege I have to self-quarantine & recover at home (so no hospital bills), the cost of the test + meds came to about Sh15K.

What if I need[ed] to be hospitalised if symptoms worsen[ed]? Tena ICU?

Tell me: who can afford to be sick?

6. I am a Kagwestatistic but noone from @MOH_Kenya has called. Those guys are not coping. At all.

This is why most people will opt to be sick & recover quietly, God willing. Stigma + brokeness is a dangerous combination.

While billions of #COVID19 shillings are being stolen.