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Source: https://reliefweb.int/report/south-s...-stigma-ordeal
South Sudan COVID-19 responders recount stigma ordeal
Source WHO
Posted
13 Jul 2020
Originally published
13 Jul 2020
Juba – Before South Sudan could confirm its first COVID-19, the airwaves had been filled with preventive messages. Many were deeply concerned as they were being urged to stop handshake greetings and observe physical distancing. The life and soul of South Sudanese communities hinge heavily on social interaction.
The first case was detected in April 2020. Then the spread of the virus sparked another anxiety: people not only feared the disease, they also feared the reaction and alienation of close family, relatives and neighbours if they tested positive for COVID-19. Even those conscious of the huge health risk found themselves paralyzed by the idea of being ostracized by their neighbours and community – around whom so much of daily life revolves. They feared being tested.
Stigma – driven by fear and uncertainty – is one of the major barriers in tackling COVID-19 pandemic and has been experienced by both community members and health workers and health authorities tackling the spread of COVID-19 in South Sudan...
South Sudan COVID-19 responders recount stigma ordeal
Source WHO
Posted
13 Jul 2020
Originally published
13 Jul 2020
Juba – Before South Sudan could confirm its first COVID-19, the airwaves had been filled with preventive messages. Many were deeply concerned as they were being urged to stop handshake greetings and observe physical distancing. The life and soul of South Sudanese communities hinge heavily on social interaction.
The first case was detected in April 2020. Then the spread of the virus sparked another anxiety: people not only feared the disease, they also feared the reaction and alienation of close family, relatives and neighbours if they tested positive for COVID-19. Even those conscious of the huge health risk found themselves paralyzed by the idea of being ostracized by their neighbours and community – around whom so much of daily life revolves. They feared being tested.
Stigma – driven by fear and uncertainty – is one of the major barriers in tackling COVID-19 pandemic and has been experienced by both community members and health workers and health authorities tackling the spread of COVID-19 in South Sudan...