The study, as reported by local media, suggests that 68% of Kenyans polled said a total lockdown was the best way to contain the virus.

The government introduced a dusk-to-dawn curfew on 27 March, but not the more strongent lockdown measures that South Africa has introduced for example.

Some 831 people from 24 out of 47 counties in Kenya were polled between 30 March and 2 April by market research company Infotrak.

Most of those who supported a total lockdown were from rural Kenya, with retired people and those in formal employment leading the pack.

A majority of those polled want the government to concentrate on stopping the spread of the virus and food security while some said the the virus threat was being exaggerated.

The poll has been dismissed by some Kenyans online who argue that the respondents were well-off people who could survive in a lockdown situation.

"Seven in 10 Kenyans know damn well it's possible to die of hunger while waiting for govt relief. We can't afford a lockdown," George Mbuchi tweeted.

"Which Kenyans are these that desperately want a lockdown? Those in Rongai, Ruiru or Runda? I still believe that lockdown is not the solution. We need to have a strategic plan that won’t hurt the have-nots in this country," Ahmed Mohammed tweeted.