While restrictions are starting to lift in the UK and throughout Europe, in Uganda there are growing concerns from the President about a ‘more dangerous phase’ of the coronavirus pandemic. But there’s also hope and optimism, thanks to the work of Women and Children First and our partners.
Up until recently, all coronavirus cases have come from abroad, making them easier to trace.
However, Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, warned in a televised address that cases of the disease were now spreading in the community. This is more difficult to contain, as you cannot trace the source of the infection. This is following the reopening of transport in some parts of the country.
There is still a night-time curfew and places of worship and schools remain closed. Uganda, as of earlier this week, has had 774 coronavirus cases, 631 recoveries from the disease and no confirmed deaths.
Women and Children First, with our partners Doctors with Africa CUAMM, have been working hard to ensure people know about the importance of hand washing, social distancing and wearing masks to mitigate the risks of the disease.
Here are some photos, videos and updates from Oyam:
In this video watch a midwife working in the region talks about the spread of coronavirus and how she deals with the concerns and stigma within the community.
Volunteer health teams gather to talk about ways of explaining the risks of coronavirus to the community, and ways to reduce them.
Medical staff wear hazmat suits to collect a patient who is thought to have the coronavirus. People are doing all they can with limited PPE to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
A doctor carries out temperature checks on a family. People are made aware that a fever or high temperature is a possible sign of the coronavirus
Women and Children First, with our partners, are continuing to work hard to ensure communities are informed about the risks of coronavirus, as well as other health issues, including malaria.
This work is made possible thanks to the kind generosity of our supporters. The groups and their leaders are also trying to encourage women to continue to attend antenatal appointments and deliver at facilities during these times, to make sure they get the health care they need.
Your support is needed now more than ever to ensure that these communities are supported – please donate if you can to support these incredible efforts.