HEALTH | COVID-19 | SLUMS

KAMPALA - As Uganda is currently experiencing unprecedented levels of COVID -19 infections, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about the virus, leading to many Ugandans acquiring it.

A study conducted by Makerere University has revealed that many slum dwellers say since the major ingredient in sanitizers is alcohol, they take waragi and spray it all over their bodies, to avoid getting COVID-19.

This, according to Hilda Namakula, the co-investigator, has triggered many Ugandans at risk of getting Covid-19. 

The study entitled `Adherence, Lived Experiences and Resilient Transformation among "slum dwellers" (ALERTs) in COVID-19, was funded by the government of Uganda through Makerere University Research Innovation Fund (MakRIF). 

At least 807 slum dwellers in Kataba-Kabalagala and Ki-Mombasa Bwaise participated in the study which was conducted in November, last year.

Presenting the study findings at Makerere University, Namakula revealed that slum dwellers were not wearing masks and were spraying alcohol on their bodies, thinking that when droplets from an infected person drop on their faces, the virus automatically dies.

The study revealed that washing of hands with water was at 38.3%, washing hands with water and soap was 33%, covering the mouth while sneezing and coughing was at 28.5%, using a mask while in a public place stood at 32.2% and regular drinking of water was at 35.5%.

The study also revealed that, COVID-19 has increased levels of violence, including violence against children and Sexual Gender Based Violence.

This has also significantly contributed to increased cases of defilement, early marriages and teenage pregnancy. 

Hilda Namakula stated that at least 807 slum dwellers in Kataba-Kabalagala and Ki-Mombasa Bwaise participated in the study which was conducted in November, this year. Photos by Violet Nabatanzi

It further stated that forced sex among the respondent during lockdown was at 2% and slapping at 4%.

The study stated that more men were beaten by women and that the men did not report to police because women were the breadwinners in the homes. And when they report to police they are laughed at and the communities see them as weak men.

At least 81% of the study participants knew that chronic illness increases the risk of death from COVID-19, 93% of those infected with the disease should be isolated.

At the time during the study, compliance to COVID-19 SOPs was extremely low, with livelihoods and the need to make a living reported as the most common explanatory factor for non-compliance to guidelines such as physical distancing or staying home. 

Other reasons for non-compliance include perceptions that Covid-19 is a political ploy, declining enforcement and multiple implementers with confusing messages.

Dr. Gloria Seruwagi, the principal investigator of the study said, the study recommended that the Community Health Strategy which was launched recently be leveraged and local health system capacity be strengthened, and equipped to effectively take up the implementation and enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for COVID-19 prevention.

Seruwagi revealed that community health systems and other enforcement structures should be equipped with knowledge, supplies and adequate infrastructure

The study also recommended the government and all stakeholders to focus on addressing the drivers of non-compliance and enforcement fatigue.

The Head of disease surveillance in Makindye division Wycliffe Ssali suggested that the government should involve Village Health Teams (VHTs) onboard adding that this will help us prevent community transmission of COVID-19.

He said when VHTs are on ground, the community listens to them more than any other person. 

He said they should also be supported to allow them to sensitize the public.