Union leaders gave a two-week warning to the government that health workers could take industrial action if their demands for those on the frontline are not met.

Some of the issues that union officials want addressed include permanent employment for their members as well as pending promotions.

"It is disappointing to note that up to date the government has remained adamant or chose to totally ignore our grievances leaving the union with no option but to take further action," George Gibore, secretary general of the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) said.

Peterson Wachira, chairman of KUCO told the BBC that seven of their members have tested positive for coronavirus.