Artist Smarty commits to coronavirus prevention
Burkinabe hip-hop legend Smarty is helping UNICEF in the fight against coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. He has penned a song entitled CORONA Alert, aimed at encouraging the population to adopt good practices to prevent the spread of the virus.
“When coronavirus arrived in Burkina Faso, I began to hear false information about the disease. I’ve composed this track with UNICEF to combat these rumors, which may harm the population,” Smarty said. “With music, the goal is to touch people’s minds and hearts and spread reliable information that will save our children.”
Coronavirus is spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person, generated through coughing or sneezing, and touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. The COVID-19 virus may survive on surfaces for several hours, but simple disinfectants can kill it.
“We must be united against this epidemic, which is affecting the whole world. On a daily basis, the people of Burkina Faso show an exemplary spirit of solidarity in the midst of the humanitarian crisis they have been enduring for several years. I am convinced that Burkinabes will maintain this state of mind and will quickly be able to adopt hygiene rules to protect themselves,” said Dr. Anne Vincent, UNICEF Representative in Burkina Faso.
UNICEF and United Nations organizations are standing side by side with the government to prevent the spread of the virus. Leaders have been trained to inform communities about the measures necessary to protect themselves and the need to avoid gatherings, especially during humanitarian crisis response operations.
With its partners, UNICEF is increasing access to water and disinfectant products and accelerating the distribution of washbasins and soap in the country, especially in areas with high concentrations of displaced populations and Health and Social Promotion Centres.
Solutions for distance learning in emergencies are being developed to ensure continuity of education through radio and television. These innovations will be made available to children affected by school closures, including displaced children.
“In crises, the most vulnerable always pay the highest price. That is why we must act quickly and respect the rules for prevention,” raps Smarty, who wants widespread mobilization from the cultural world against the epidemic.
The symptoms of coronavirus can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia or breathing difficulties. More rarely, the disease can be fatal.
However, there are effective prevention measures that can be taken: where possible, wash your hands frequently with water and soap; cover your mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing; avoid all close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms; call a doctor in case of fever, cough or difficulty breathing. In such cases, it is essential to call the free number 3535 to report your symptoms.
To date, UNICEF needs US$8.9 million to respond to the epidemic and help protect the population against coronavirus.
