MY BARIKA’s response to COVID-19
Updated: Sep 23
Context: this article describes MY BARIKA’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic. The prevention instructions below are retained from the original article and should not be treated as current medical guidance. Follow the latest advice from your local health authorities.
Joining forces to overcome the crisis
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses a major challenge to health systems worldwide. Medical staff are under enormous pressure, equipment and supplies are urgently needed, and many places need temporary health facilities to manage the large influx of patients requiring specialised treatment.
The rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic is having consequences across the globe. In this difficult context, MY BARIKA works closely with health agencies in Benin, other partners and communities across the country to support efforts against the virus and limit its spread.
MY BARIKA’s response to the pandemic
The support activities carried out by MY BARIKA aim to meet immediate needs and reduce the long-term consequences of COVID-19. These actions are outlined below. They seek to protect everyone’s health, in line with recommendations from health institutions in Benin, and to promote essential hygiene practices: washing hands, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the face, and maintaining physical distance.
Essential hygiene measures
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water—or preferably with hand sanitiser—to remove viruses that may be on your hands. This is a simple but very important step.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This can help prevent the virus from entering your body. Hands touch many surfaces that may carry viruses. Once hands are contaminated, the virus can quickly reach the face, where it can enter the body and cause illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow when you cough or sneeze. If you use a tissue, throw it away immediately and wash your hands. Wear a mask when going out to shop. Droplets spread the coronavirus.
Keep your distance when interacting with others. Maintain a minimum distance of one metre. Keeping this distance helps you avoid inhaling droplets from someone coughing or sneezing nearby. You must also follow the public health cordons established by the government.
Stay informed and take action
If you feel unwell, isolate yourself. Follow all instructions issued by local health authorities. If you have a fever, a cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice, but call ahead. Stay informed: local health authorities regularly provide information about the situation in your area. Follow their specific instructions and set an example in your community by observing the measures above and helping those around you to follow them.
Distribution of prevention supplies
MY BARIKA also committed to distributing awareness posters, handwashing kits, soap, hand sanitiser and masks in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These efforts aim to raise awareness of good hygiene practices and reduce transmission.
The pandemic’s long-term consequences
The effects of this outbreak will extend far beyond those directly infected. We are concerned that income losses will worsen food insecurity among already vulnerable communities. We are also concerned about malnourished children who need care and whose futures depend on their families’ ability to meet their needs. That is why we continue our humanitarian activities across the country, adapting our work to support these communities while avoiding becoming a source of transmission.
Together, we can make a difference
Together, we can overcome these challenges. Every gesture counts, and every individual action contributes to protecting our community. By acting responsibly and supporting local initiatives, we can all play a part in the response to COVID-19. We invite you to remain vigilant, stay informed and act for everyone’s wellbeing.
For more information about our activities and how you can help, visit our website here.
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