Awareness programs critical in Kalahandi as second wave reaches peak

As the second wave of COVID reaches its peak in the next several weeks, it is becoming increasingly critical to spread awareness in areas that were unscathed during the first wave. This update comes from Dr Sr Aquinas Edassery and Swasthya Swaraj Society, which is based in Kalahandi, Odisha.

Ground Conditions:

Swasthya Swaraj Society works in a remote, underserved tribal area. The population is extremely undernourished and is typically not seeking treatment in the early stages of the disease. The tribal communities here were largely unscathed in the first wave, but case numbers are rising during the current surge. With a lack of COVID testing and treatment infrastructure in the area, there is a high level of concern that the population might be very adversely affected if the second wave intensifies.

 

Swasthya Swaraj is working actively to create awareness in all the villages they work in. One of the hurdles they have had to overcome is general complacency in the population, which was to a large extent spared in the first wave. These awareness campaigns are led by their health team which has been travelling to the villages to teach the villagers some basic diagnosis based on clinical signs and symptoms. It is directing them to home based or community based care as the situation warrants.

Current Plans and Needs:

• Measuring oxygen levels using Oximeter
• Providing continued support for chronic conditions
• Basic COVID antigen testing support

AID will continue to support Swasthya Swaraj Society as the pandemic reaches its peak, helping the communities in Kalahandi respond to the second wave in an informed manner. Please support this work!

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