Globally, countries are experiencing unprecedented cases of viruses such as HIV, Ebola, Covid-19, dengue fever, and Chikungunya. These viruses have affected socio-economic and political spheres of lives resulting in a massive loss of jobs, deaths, and decline in international trade and development.
An effective response to these viruses would possibly be a breakthrough in achieving sustainable development goals, Africa Union Agenda 2063, and Kenyan vision 2030 mild-term strategic plan. So far, progress has been made in research, policy, and programs to promote health, help prevent, treat and care for people, plants, and animals. Perfect examples include equipment, vaccines, clinical trials, funding, and awareness creation. This has brought about a notable decline in the spread of viruses and the longevity of lives.
Unfortunately, many gaps in policy and response still linger as there is no cure or vaccine, developed to eradicate these viruses. Sad still, the existing nontherapeutic interventions have not been given the correct attention in terms of policy and response especially in developing economies. Many countries including Kenya have neglected most tropical diseases. This neglect has affected public perception and response to viruses particularly Dengue Fever or Chikungunya, which are spread to people when they’re bitten by an infected mosquito or tick. Consequently, there has been an increase in the emergence and recurrence of these diseases in tropical Europe, Asia, America, and Africa.
