Many families who left their homes in the Sinjar district for Dohuk before the atrocities of the so-called Islamic State (IS) are now gradually returning. But years of crisis, war damage, mismanagement and the exodus of skilled personnel have severely affected the Iraqi health system. Conflict-affected populations have no access or opportunity to purchase important hygiene and cleaning materials. This in turn has a negative impact on public health and the dignity of the highly vulnerable returned people. The limited or poor quality of WaSH facilities and poor hygiene practices increase the risk of the spread of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. The Mission East organization, with its many years of experience in the region, plans to support 560 families who returned to Sinjar from IDP camps in Dohuk with COVID-19 measures as part of the project. Hygiene and cleaning kits as well as IEC (Information, Education, Communication) materials such as leaflets and posters on central topics will be distributed. Trained hygiene ambassadors will also provide information on important hygiene practices to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
