In India, the spread of the virus among the population immediately had serious consequences and many victims. The A Vaccine for All campaign therefore decided to target its second project (symbol-action) at the rural populations of India. This action resulted in 802 people being vaccinated from January to March 2022.
Awareness raising and data collection
The Action for Rural India project, in collaboration with Shanti Ashram through its International Center for Child and Public Health (ICPH) in Coimbatore, led to the creation of information materials in Tamil (local language) and English to raise awareness of the importance of the vaccine and to dispel some of the beliefs that were hindering the spread of prevention norms and vaccination itself.
In addition to raising awareness, field workers collected data on the most fragile and vulnerable groups in need of the vaccine, including families living in extreme poverty, single mothers, HIV patients and people with disabilities, as well as advocating for vaccination among the elderly and adolescents.
Shanti Ashram’s research team also continued to conduct analyses and needs assessments both for its own use and for the government of Tamil Nadu. The Research Desk publishes articles on the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and vulnerable children.
Vaccinations
From January, when the project began, to March 2022, 802 people have been vaccinated in the villages of Ramachettipalayam , Kasturigarden, Maraimalainagar, Sentamilnagar, Gandhinagar, Thiruvalluvarnagar, , Kuniamuthur, Nagarajapuram, and Kurumbapalayam. To reach everyone, especially those who due to conditions of extreme poverty and lack of access to technology were at risk of being left out of the administrations, action was taken at the ICPH campus and through mobile clinics going directly to the villages.
Celebrating the operators
On World Women’s Day, Shanti Ashram also had the opportunity to participate in celebrations to recognize the tremendous efforts and contributions made during the most critical phases of the pandemic by nurses and health workers, particularly women. With all possible effort and their humanity they ensured treatment, vaccine and help for the entire population.