ANPPCAN Cameroon in its efforts to ensuring the protection of children amidst the covid-19 in Cameroon, developed a rapid response project in the North West Region of Cameroon to support some learning spaces that were operational.
ANPPCAN Cameroon is of the opinion that one way to protect and prevent the population from getting infected by covid-19 is to build public awareness on the pandemic. Focus was on education campaign that will disseminate accurate information, grounded in facts about COVID-19, and provide guidelines on how citizens can help themselves and others to stay healthy during the crisis. Through the use of education materials that speak on efficient hand washing techniques, social distancing and the appropriate ways to use a face mask, we can reduce the rate of transmission of COVID-19 and make a difference to the people and especially the children of Bamenda II council (Atualah, Chomba and Chindeh, Mankon) in the North West Region.
Participants/ Target group
A total number of 217 persons made up of school children, teachers, youths and other community members benefited from the materials and training.
The activities took place on the 14th and 24th of May 2020 in Atualah quarter in CHOMBA and CHINDEH quarter in Mankon respectively. Community mobilization was carried out by ANPPCAN support staff at field level and some community leaders. These ceremony were presided over by the quarter heads of the two communities in the presence of the targeted beneficiaries who are children attending the community learning spaces, parents and teachers. Key discussions of the day included:
The population was reminded of what ANPPCAN Cameroon is, its vision, mission, objectives as well as its programs. In response to the presentations, the Community leaders thanked ANPPCAN Cameroon for the laudable initiative and promise to work hand in glove with ANPPCAN Cameroon for future projects.
In response to an increasing new confirmed and suspected cases of COVID patients reported in the North West Region, ANPPCAN Cameroon supported two community learning spaces in the Bamenda II municipality, particularly in the villages of CHOMBA and CHINDEH through awareness raising and provision of materials consisting of 10 cubes of savon (400 g each) of soap, 4 buckets (50L), 04 buckets (15L) for proper hand washing and 50 facemasks. Awareness raising was centered on the statistics of cases and deaths in the world, Cameroon and North West Region in particular. The different ways it can be contracted, how it can be prevented. This was done in the presences of the traditional authorities, municipal councilors and community members.
Hand washing remains one of the best tip for preventing the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Hand washing throughout the day is important, but even more important during an outbreak. The various situations were identified to ensure our hands are washed. These included but not limited to; after returning from a public outing (grocery store, work, school, concert, sporting activity, hospital, nursing home, etc.). Before leaving the bathroom — both at home and in public bathrooms, before, during, and after preparing food, especially raw food etc. However, it must be done properly and with soap and water. When soap and water are not available, the next best option is to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Proper hand washing not only reduces the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), it can prevent the spread of other viral illnesses such as cold and flu. Hand washing also reduces the risk of getting other easily spread infections. Apply a generous drop of hand sanitizer to the palm of your hand and rub it across hands, front and back, and fingertips.
Facemasks help limit the spread of the germs. When someone talks, coughs, or sneezes they may release tiny drops into the air that can infect others. If someone is ill a face masks can reduce the number of germs that the wearer releases and can protect other people from becoming sick. A face mask also protects the wearer’s nose and mouth from splashes or sprays of body fluids.
Consider wearing a face mask when you are sick with a cough or sneezing illness (with or without fever) and you expect to be around other people. The face mask will help protect them from catching your illness. Healthcare settings have specific rules for when people should wear face masks.
