The COVID-19 cases are extensively on the rise in Nepal. Lockdown has been extended in different parts of the country. As of 25th August, there has been 32,678 confirmed cases, 18,860 recoveries and 157 deaths so far.
In response to the current pandemic situation, COVID-19 Awareness and Capacity Building Campaign was conducted in Siddhicharan Municipality, Okhaldhunga and Tarkeswore Municipality, Kathmandu from 23rd June to 18th August, 2020. A total of 64 campaigns were conducted, maximum of 3 campaigns in a day with 25-30 participants in each session. In total 1,911 households were benefited from the campaign. Moreover, we trained 27 women from Okhaldhunga to make liquid hand wash.
“Can mosquitoes transmit the virus? Does corona only affect old people? Is it true that people have been drinking alcohol to kill corona virus? Can we use the locally made alcohol as sanitizer?” asked a number of participants. Most of the times, it is observed that public are not entirely aware and do not have reliable information about the disease. As a result, they are seen incorporating unhealthy practices and habits which could be harmful at both individual and community level. Hence, objective of the campaign was to aware people about COVID-19 and build up their capacity to prevent the infection.
The campaign was led by Dr. Laxmi Prasad Ghimire (Public Health consultant and program manager) with three other staff. It was accomplished in four segments. Initially, the model of campaign was presented to key stakeholders. Secondly, community awareness was conducted with Women Groups. Third, we donated COVID-19 prevention materials to health centers, ward offices, security offices and participants. Finally, women group members were trained to make liquid handwash for personal and commercial purpose. The session was thus conducted ensuring physical distancing and COVID-19 safety protocols.
It was observed that participants were very interested in know about the origin, symptoms and preventive measure of the disease. Partakers were familiarized with 6-steps hand washing technique and were presented with a bottle of handwash at the end of session. Importance of herbal and locally available medicines were highlighted. They were also very keen on understanding the difference between RDT and PCR. Overall, participants were seen actively engaged throughout the session.
Overall, the Participatory Awareness and Capacity Building of Local Stakeholders in Corona (COVID-19) Prevention Campaign 2020 was successfully conducted. The campaign was highly valued by the beneficiaries and the objectives were met.
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