The impact of Covid-19 in Iraq
Iraq has been heavily affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Initial strict curfews prevented the movement of humanitarian workers, hugely affecting our ability to help those on the move.
All 19 Iraqi governorates have had confirmed infections of Covid-19. The strict preventative measures and curfews put in place, including the shutdown of educational institutions and businesses, has made everyday life even more difficult for communities in Iraq.
Children are now spending most of their days indoors with no access to modern technology to allow for remote learning. Refugees and displaced people are struggling to survive in these critical times. Between lack of income to purchase basic food items and medications, confined spaces and the Covid-19 pandemic, they have been under immense stress. These combined worries, have caused serious damage to their mental and physical health.
Our response to Covid-19 in Iraq
After the government announced the lift of restrictions and the reopening of airports, public spaces and malls, our teams in Iraq are now working against the clock to meet the needs of the Iraqi people and displaced and refugee communities.
So far we have:
- distributed 4,000 hygiene kits to vulnerable families and internally displaced persons in West Mosul
- facilitated awareness sessions on Covid-19
- provided psychological support
We’re also resuming our usual activities in Mosul, Dohuk and Sinjar. We have adapted our way of working by using personal protective equipment, reducing group sizes and adjusting our surrounding to allow for safe practices.
