Compliance with physical distancing measures for COVID-19 and implications for RCCE in Eastern and Southern Africa
This brief reports on attitudes and practices relating to physical distancing measures in Eastern and Southern Africa in the context of the current global COVID-19 outbreak. Where relevant, it also includes insight and learning from the Ebola outbreaks in West Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It sets out practical considerations for the formulation of communication strategies and messaging on the subject of physical distancing related to COVID-19, taking into account the numerous challenges regarding implementation and mitigation of harmful effects that exist in the region, and cognisant that distancing may, in some settings, have adverse effects and contribute directly and indirectly to COVID-19 related deaths.
Numerous factors influence compliance with physical distancing measures in Eastern and Southern Africa. Potential or actual negative consequences of distancing may deter people from complying with directives or have long-term detrimental effects if they do so. The factors outlined in this report - including economic factors, population density, conflict settings, socially vulnerable groups, and religious beliefs and practices - should be taken into account when designing risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) strategies. Available measures and ways to mitigate negative consequences should be incorporated into messaging.