This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
A new survey by TIFA research firm has shed light on the concerning reality of COVID-19 awareness in Nairobi's informal settlements. Published on July 12, 2020, the poll, co-sponsored by the Canadian High Commission and Hanns Seidel Foundation, indicates that only 40% of the city's residents are aware of the country's COVID-19 caseload.
Interestingly, the survey reveals that men are more aware of the figures, with 16% of men aware compared to 10% of women. This disparity is reflected in the Ministry of Health statistics, which show that men account for the lion's share of the 9,726 COVID-19 cases reported since March.
According to the survey, awareness of COVID-19 symptoms is also a concern. While 80% of city residents are aware of coughing as a symptom, only 40% are aware of breathing complications. The survey further shows that the numbers of people fearing to contract COVID-19 in Nairobi have significantly dropped between April and June, with the uncertainty level dropping from 54% in April to 50% in mid-June.
As the research firm pointed out, 'unless the vast majority of people do what is required/advised at least until there is a vaccination that would allow everyone to resume 'normal life', the virus will continue in our midst, causing even more damage to both the health of individuals and the economy.'
The survey, which interviewed 579 respondents across the city's informal settlements, highlights the need for robust public health education and awareness campaigns to address the concerning reality of COVID-19 awareness in Nairobi's slums.
