Thanks to supporters, Bali Children’s Project has been able to donate critical protective equipment (N95 masks) to healthcare workers on the frontline of the pandemic.
While there are relatively low numbers of official COVID-19 cases in Bali, there are fears that many have never been identified.
Schools in Bali have been closed and the borders effectively shut, meaning Bali’s main income – tourism – is non-existent right now.
Meanwhile, healthcare workers are still dealing with positive cases. Healthcare workers are faced with not knowing if their next patient might have COVID-19.
Supply and Demand
As with many parts of the world, there are shortages in supply of effective Personal Protective Equipment – especially in health facilities. The next best thing available is surgical masks.
Thankfully, Bali Children’s Project still had access to over 200 adult N95 respirators, which have now been delivered to two facilities on the frontline.
Sanjiwani Hospital is one of the main government hospitals dealing with COVID-19 referrals. Right now, the hospital is treating 12 patients positive COVID-19 and receiving many more suspected cases. Our team met with Sanjiwani Hospital to deliver the 175 adult N95 masks.
Meanwhile at Puksesmas Ubud II, staff deal with new patients every day, many of whom have come in believing they have COVID-19. Due to a shortage in supply, the facility had been using surgical masks, with limited N95 masks available. Our team donated 30 adult N95 masks to help this busy clinic.
The masks now offer these two facilities an increased level of protection for healthcare workers, who go into work every day knowing they could have close contact with COVID-19.
Which Mask?
Generally, there are three masks in circulation in Bali – basic cotton masks, surgical masks and N95 respirator masks.
Healthline reports that the only real effective measure – especially for those working in the front line – is to us N95 respirators. Cotton masks offer basic protection, while surgical masks are loose fitting and cannot filter COVID-19 particles.
“Surgical masks can’t protect against infection with SARS-CoV-2. Not only does the mask not filter out smaller aerosol particles, but air leakage also occurs through the sides of the mask as you inhale.”
Appeal
Bali Children’s Project is also focusing on helping ease the burden for families affected by COVID-19. Already living in poverty before the pandemic, families are finding life even harder. There is less work available and many families are struggling just to get basics.
We have been appealing to supporters to help these families by donating $40 USD Food Relief Packages. The packages offer much needed respite for families, giving them staples to help cope.
