The project seeks to combat the spread of hepatitis in children through preventive measures.
Location
TunisiaStage
PreparationWebsite Link
swb.org.tnThematic Focus
Emergency Medical Response through CSOsThe Problem
During the past few years in Tunisia, the Ministry of Health has recorded a large number of cases of hepatitis A, despite the implementation of systematic vaccination strategies by health authorities since October 2018. Most of those infected are school children above six years of age. Field investigations show that the majority of schools, where these cases were recorded, have bad sanitation – lack of access to safe drinking water and low water supply in sanitary blocks.
The Solution
Scout Without Borders aims to study school children's immunity to the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and the rate of exposure to infection through a HAV seroprevalence study. It also seeks to assess hygiene conditions as well as HAV vaccination coverage in rural schools. It will hold group discussions with several actors including health authorities, epidemiologists, researchers and statisticians to determine hygiene improvement measures. It will additionally implement educational interventions to induce behavioural change in schools and increase awareness among children as well as parents.
Impact
The project seeks to combat the spread of hepatitis through preventive measures, thereby contributing to the promotion of good health and wellbeing among children. It also seeks to reduce inequalities by providing equitable access to preventive healthcare as well as increase access to adequate hygiene and sanitation in rural areas.
SDGs
