Self-reliance & resilience in slum women's groups

Recent outbreak of coronavirus in India has not only paralysed the economy but has also put the most vulnerable at risk of getting infected. The living conditions of slum communities in India are characterised by sub-optimal housing and high population density. The public healthcare infrastructure of India is weak which doubles the challenge for the most vulnerable.  

UHRC team members have developed COVID 19 prevention messages in local language (Hindi) and are transmitting to the slum communities via WhatsApp and Facebook, the most used social media platforms by slum families. The messages are being reinforced periodically to remind the community about following these preventive behaviours.

Key messages are: 

• Washing hands aggresively using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
• Avoid touching hands, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. 
• Avoid shaking hands while greeting someone. Fold hands while greeting. 
• Use your forearm to cover the mouth while sneezing or coughing. 
• Stay at home as much as possible. Avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary.