PSI believes giving information and access to products allows people to make healthy choices for themselves and their families.
Because the Zika virus is transmitted through infected mosquitos and sexual contact, PSI is helping communities combat both threats through clear and coordinated communications efforts, training and product distribution.
PSI–with support from USAID and corporate partners–is folding these strategies into its existing health programs in Honduras, Haiti, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Panama and Guatemala by:
- Launching a regional communication campaign about the most effective ways of preventing Zika.
- Distributing starter safe pregnancy kits containing bug spray, condoms and Zika prevention educational materials developed in coordination with local ministries of health.
- Counseling women of reproductive age about their short- and long- term contraception options to delay pregnancy.
- Providing accurate information about post-abortion care and the prevention of unsafe abortions.
- Training private clinics to educate and counsel patients, refer Zika cases for diagnosis and provide follow-up support.
- Developing prevention workbooks and other tools for community health educators and providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and lab workers.
With just a click, you can honor a mother you admire and help protect a pregnant woman from the Zika virus.
This post was written by Margaret Cohen, Senior Manager of Online Fundraising and Engagement, PSI
