Protecting children from preventable diseases amid COVID-19 in South Darfur
A mother ensures her newborn receives critical vaccinations
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- العربية
Amal Mohammed Hassan, a well-educated mother brought her newborn son Mustajab Ahmed Adam, just 44-days-old, to the vaccination center. “I know these days how risky it is to not stay at home because of coronavirus, but I worry that my child could get measles or poliomyelitis if not vaccinated, “ said the concerned mother.
Amal is an activist and has successfully convinced her community in Nyala to avoid gathering while drinking coffee in groups. In Darfur, it is a tradition for women to chat and drink coffee together.
“Since I’m currently working in the health field as a nurse I’m keen to spread messages on coronavirus prevention while meeting my neighbors focusing on the importance of social distancing and washing hands frequently with water and soaps, “ said Amal.
Amal has appealed for authorities to ensure face masks are available, both for health care providers and communities to limit the spread of coronavirus. “I tell the mothers that vaccinators are wearing masks and gloves and wash their hands after vaccinating each child,” she said.
I know these days how risky it is to not stay at home because of coronavirus, but I worry that my child could get measles or poliomyelitis if not vaccinated.
She is keen to see Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) vaccination sites continue to keep physical distancing during vaccination sessions and ensuring that mothers are informed on the importance of bringing their children to vaccination sites, while taking all the necessary safety measures, during the coronavirus outbreak.
Amal thanked UNICEF and the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) for their continuous effort in availing vaccination services during this difficult time while many other social services have been suspended or completely stopped.
UNICEF is able to support baby Mustajab and other children like him in South Darfur thanks to the generous support of GAVI.
Babikir Altigani Noraldein is a health officer for UNICEF Sudan in Nyala, South Darfur.
