CARE Bangladesh has taken several precautions to check possible spread of COVID-19 which includes, hygiene measures such as hand washing, sanitizing the environment and has already integrated COVID-19 related awareness into its regular programs in the Rohingya camps. The awareness messaging includes proper hand washing techniques, hygiene practices and social distancing (maintaining minimum one meter distance between two persons). Also, in order to be prepared in case there are people showing any symptoms of COVID-19, CARE has set up 3 quarantine rooms in 3 camps. We have established contacts with the local hospitals who will be called upon to deal with suspected cases when needed. Further, CARE has a formal arrangement in place with ambulance services to transport suspected cases to these hospitals in case regular ambulances are not available.
With nearly 860,000 Rohingyas living in a very small and cramped geographical area, we are apprehensive and concerned that the potential of the virus spreading fast even with one positive case. Thus with one positive case being detected in Cox’s, it is normal to be concerned. It is critical need of the hour and it is instrumental to follow the protocols of safety. We are continuously reiterating and reinforcing to make sure our frontline workers continue to do so and also make the communities aware. Both government and the humanitarian agencies are doing their best and would expect the general public to cooperate in this life saving effort.
