A Statement From Kenya Union of Nutritionists Over Coronavirus

Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians is a recognized trade union and authorized under section 12 of the labor relations act to carry out all lawful activities and formalize the union and its activities for the protection and promotion of Nutritionists and Dietitians welfare.

Regarding our function above, we have to represent and advocate for the labor rights for all nutritionists and dietitians who are recognized by the existing law and allowed to provide their services within the frameworks of existing laws, be it at the training levels, career development or any duty prescribed to link up to the science of nutrition and dietetics.

As we work towards formalization and acquisition of full operation certificate, we would like to bring the following matters and resolutions to the public.

After a close and keen monitoring of the unfortunate occurrence of the world pandemic COVID- 19 infections and following confirmation of the infection cases in Kenya, the committee has concluded that;

Nutritionists and Dietitians are on the front-lines of caring for patients in various hospitals including those with COVID-19 infection

We are all working together under the extraordinary circumstance to deal with the public health crisis in our state.

At the same time, we need to ensure that all health care service providers are getting the needed protective equipment to do their jobs safely.

We have heard from our members that they do not get the protective equipment and the timely information needed.

We understand as healthcare service providers that this is a rapidly evolving situation but the questions and concerns of front-line caregivers need to be addressed as immediately as possible.

Based on the five points of concern above, we advise as follows;

That our members-only report to the clinics especially in the front-line services upon reception of the much needed protective

That healthcare providers across the country form proper framework and protocols to ensure the safety of the staffs and all support staffs and at the same time ensure the safety of citizens seeking various healthcare

All Nutrition Interns should keep off until their safety is guaranteed or in the existence of an emergency which requires their service. In case of such emergencies, both the hospital and the organizers of such an internship must provide personal benefits and medical cover for the said During such times the preceptors must ensure all necessary protective equipment are provided.

The public needs to know that it is the responsibility of every citizen to work jointly to ensure that the impact of the COVI-19 outbreak is curbed most humanly and as rapidly as possible.

This is an extraordinary public health emergency, we call for calm, we do not have a reason to panic and remain our brothers and sisters keepers while working together as a community to tame this pandemic.