COVID-19

Philippines
We have performed a rapid evidence review on social distancing measures and economic support measures for the Department of Health (DOH), which has directly contributed to the government’s social distancing efforts in March.

In addition, we are conducting a rapid phone survey in Parañaque City to understand low-income citizens’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices on COVID-19, their non-COVID health concerns, and the socio-economic effects of the lockdown. The results will be used by the DOH’s COVID-19 Task Force to improve COVID-19 policy responses. We are also providing further support to the DOH to help inform future decisions, such as when to reopen schools.

Ghana
We are conducting health facility surveys in rural areas to inform COVID-related health commodities and the use of manless drone delivery. We are also advising on evidence-based approaches to remote education including radio learning, interactive television instruction, and online learning via web-based instruction for the Ministry of Education.

Malawi
We are supporting targeted economic response efforts for high-need populations by identifying the highest-risk areas for COVID-19 infections and deaths. In addition, we are advising the government to reroute existing cash transfer and social protection programs to reach populations made more vulnerable by COVID-19. We are working with our counterparts at the Ministry of Social Welfare.

South Africa
In collaboration with the National Development Agency (NDA), we have created a policy brief on promoting healthy behaviors and social protection to vulnerable populations. The brief has been shared with the Department of Social Development to inform decision-making on COVID-19 response efforts.