Training for IRS in the Age of Covid-19

This week’s Fist Bump Friday goes to VectorLink Senegal as they prepare and train for the start of their IRS spray campaign scheduled for May 28^th in Kedougou and Makacolibantang (two districts which have never been sprayed), while adhering to PMI and WHO guidelines around COVID-19 to keep all participants safe and reduce the risk of spread of disease.

VectorLink Senegal worked with the home office to accommodate for COVID-19 travel restrictions by replacing the IRS Boot Camp with a virtual Master Training, held April 23-25th. Several members of the country team participated in this three-day training on IRS operations, led virtually by Allan Ware. Sana Diop and Abdoulaye Bangoura also led virtual training sessions on environmental compliance and M&E, respectively. Kudos to Allan, Sana, and Abdoulaye as well!

Those trained facilitated the Training of Trainers (TOT) held this week. The TOT was held over 5 days from April 27-May 1st in Tambacounda District. A total of 30 staff participated in the training – this group was split into three groups of 10 and each trained in a different classroom. Each participant was separated by 6 feet or more. There is a handwashing station at the front of each classroom where participants must wash their hands before entering. Participants are also getting their temperature tested daily to ensure no one has a fever. All participants and trainers were provided with locally procured masks at a ratio of one mask/day. The team set-up a rotating training agenda so that trainers can rotate among the three classrooms. Training materials included modules on COVID-19 response and best practices. All practical training is also being done with space of greater than 6 feet in between participants as well.

Congratulations, VL Senegal, and good luck with your campaign!