Bihar: Unicef bid to protect children from Covid

PATNA: The second wave of Covid has affected a large number of children in the state. Unlike in the first wave, the virus has also reached rural areas this time.
According to a state government data released by Unicef, nearly 11% of infected people between mid-March and mid-May were those in the age group of 0-19 years. Health experts have apprehended that children would be affected in the third wave as well.
According to Unicef, since anganwadi centres are closed, the nutrition status of children under two years of age, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers has been compromised. Seeing the spread of Covid in the rural areas and also its impact on children in the second wave, Unicef is extending support to the state government in association with its three other partners by rolling out an awareness and community mobilisation initiative, christened ‘Surakshaagrah-Covid par halla bol’ in Muzaffarpur and Supaul this week. The Unicef has also planned to implement the initiative in Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnia and Sitamarhi in the days to come.
As part of this programme, over 600 ‘suraksha praharis’ or community mobilisers will create awareness on Covid and how one can protect oneself and others from the virus by following Covid-appropriate behaviour.
“Rapid transmission of Covid-19 in rural areas is really worrisome. Almost 89% of Bihar lives in villages. More than 46% are children and adolescents, who are particularly vulnerable. Children are increasingly being infected. It is crucial that rural people, including children and youths, have the tools of correct information on how to protect themselves. Children’s safety and well-being is our top priority,” said Nafisa Binte Shafique, Unicef’s Bihar chief.