COVID19 pandemic in Uganda 3500cases with 30 in Arua- West Nile. Government announced extreme lock-down measures which include; ban on public gatherings, transport closer of schools to prevent the community transmission. However, lack of awareness about virus transmission, signs and symptoms, preventive measures has made the rural communities not to adhere to SOPs partly due to poor road access and mobile networks. The lock-dow has severe economic implications, yet COVID test is for pay,
The world faces a global health crisis due to the Corona virus pandemic which continues to spread. While all countries need to respond to COVID-19, those with existing humanitarian crises are particularly vulnerable, and less equipped and unable to strengthen community systems in a sustainable manner unless supported. Uganda has so far confirmed 3300cases,30of whom are admitted in Arua. Though 1532cases have recovered, the pandemic has created panic and stigma with risk of community spread.
communities along the boarders are at higher risk, IHDI will train and impower village health team (volunteers) to conduct home visits with IEC material and sensitize families about the Corona virus transmission, signs and symptoms and preventive measures, establish hand washing facilities at every homestead, provide soap to the families in approximately 1000 homesteads. These VHTs will be supported with PPE, incentives to be able to ride on bicycles from home to home and make referrals to HCs.
The preventive measures for the COVID-19 will be integrated into the community health structures for the iCCM, hence the same funding for iCCM will be expected continue the awareness and over time to prevent community transmission of COVID-19, hence reduction in morbidity and mortality related to COVID-19 at community level as members become informed and follow social distancing, keep clean with hand washing with soap and not touching the eyes, nose or mouth with dirty hands.
