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COVID-19 Resources

Welcome to the I-TECH COVID-19 Resources page. Below you will find a catalog of weekly and monthly digests sent to I-TECH worldwide staff, with a round-up of news from our country offices, as well as national and I-TECH responses. To the right, you’ll find the most recent PEPFAR guidance, lists of resources and presentations our staff has found helpful, and FAQs we have received from staff.

PLEASE NOTE: The digests below represent a summary of daily communications from I-TECH country offices to I-TECH headquarters in Seattle. They are based on our country office perspective only and are not meant to represent a full national picture in each country.

While we do our best to keep our staff up to date with guidelines, one of the most reliable sources of information is the World Health Organization Coronavirus Technical Guidance website.

If you are interested in UW resources, please visit the UW COVID-19 resources page for general information about telework, UW resources, and UW information sources.

I-TECH COVID-19 Digests

14 January 2022

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 14 January 2022

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 14 January 2022.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
Dec 17
Today % Change from
Dec 17
Today % Change from
Dec 17
Global (7.6 B) 315,345,967 16% 9,222,536,080 11% 5,510,174 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 7,731,116 16%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 232,432 18% 1,169,197 5% 2,497 3%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 78,258 26% 7,113,233 48% 745 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 314,490 22% 10,687,619 26% 5,469 2%
Malawi (18.1 M) 81,414 29% 1,740,820 11% 2,437 5%
Mozambique (29.5M) 214,807 38% 17,031,660 45% 2,105 8%
Namibia (2.5 M) 152,982 14% 643,829 8% 3,735 4%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
3,540,891 10% 27,977,830 5% 92,830 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 30,564 15% 2,431,769 43% 740 1%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 224,433 23% 7,248,458 3% 5,215 10%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 46,578,130 4%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 120,684 0.2% 30,456,720 4% 3,015 1%
India (1.4 B) 36,317,927 5% 1,476,253,454 14% 485,035 2%
Europe (741.4 M) 115,467,381 24%      
Ukraine (42 M) 3,727,034 4% 28,426,123 7% 97,928 6%
Americas (1 B) 115,311,864 16%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 26,807 4% 197,175 7% 780 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 106,379 16% 1,218,250 5% 2,506 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 97,897 20% 1,416,634 9% 3,102 26%
USA (382.2 M) 62,126,362 25% 502,616,303 4% 836,482 6%

*Total vaccine doses administered
Source, COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source, population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

New USG Guidance: The most recent PEPFAR update was from 5 January 2021. Updates included information about SARS CoV-2 viral variants, upcoming therapeutics, updated quarantine and isolation information, masking, infection prevention and control measures, and new resources for voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC). To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit: https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/

17 December 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 17 December 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 17 December 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
Nov 12
Today % Change from
Nov 12
Today % Change from
Nov 12
Global (7.6 B) 271,376,643 8% 8,337,664,456 16% 5,324,969 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 6,675,559 8%     2,424
Botswana (2.3 M) 197,644 2% 1,113,560 38% 706 1%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 61,943 1% 4,812,235 36% 5,350 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 257,614 1% 8,515,984 46% 2,310 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 62,933 2% 1,571,907 20% 1,946 0.3%
Mozambique (29.5M) 155,495 3% 11,730,770 81% 3,579 1%
Namibia (2.5 M) 134,154 4% 596,748 ** 90,226 0.4%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
3,231,031 10% 26,730,975 15% 734 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 26,483 1% 1,699,523 70% 4,759 1%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 182,057 37% 7,012,555 16% 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 44,786,380 1%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 120,390 1% 29,426,116 7% 2,995 5%
India (1.4 B) 34,718,602 1% 1,294,608,045 18% 476,478 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 93,152,391 16%      
Ukraine (42 M) 3,588,147 13% 26,567,167 37% 92,313 22%
Americas (1 B) 99,085,620 4%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 25,879 6% 183,974 33% 762 8%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 91,868 2% 1,155,017 19% 2,432 6%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 81,857 35% 1,303,650 5% 2,454 36%
USA (382.2 M) 49,833,416 7% 465,812,616 4% 792,371 5%

*Total vaccine doses administered
Source, COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source, population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

New USG Guidance: The most recent PEPFAR update was from 1 December 2021. Updated information about SARS CoV-2 variants was included, COVID panorama dashboard was announced and additional resources were added for COVID-19 vaccination. To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit: https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/

12 November 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 12 November 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 12 November 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
Sept 17
Today % Change from
Sept 17
Today % Change from
Sept 17
Global (7.6 B) 251,788,329 4% 7,160,396,495 8% 5,077,907 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 6,182,165 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 193,701 5% 804,424 8% 2,411 1%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 61,426

 

1% 3,541,785 22% 699 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 254,151 1% 5,813,553 24% 5,315 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 61,834 0.2% 1,311,847 8% 2,302 0.3%
Mozambique (29.5M) 151,410 0.2% 6,491,287 71% 1,934 0.4%
Namibia (2.5 M) 129,038 1% 708,735 21% 3,564 1%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
2,924,978 0.2% 23,151,823 15% 89,452 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 26,196 1% 1,001,610 13% 725 0.1%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 133,329 1% 6,020,607 5% 4,694 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 44,227,520 1%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 119,358 2% 27,488,038 19% 2,850 6%
India (1.4 B) 34,414,186 1% 1,095,926,470 11% 462,690 2%
Europe (741.4 M) 80,316,815 8%      
Ukraine (42 M) 3,179,577 18% 19,322,408 34% 75,607 21%
Americas (1 B) 94,820,509 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 24,383 4% 138,330 35% 705 7%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 89,926 3% 972,401 14% 2,302 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 60,475 11% 1,236,684 6% 1,806 12%
USA (382.2 M) 46,501,534 4% 449,472,005 8% 752,960 4%

*Total vaccine doses administered
Source, COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source, population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

New USG Guidance: The most recent PEPFAR update was from 10 November 2021. Vaccine guidance was updated and draft COP22 alignment of priorities were described. To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit: https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/.

22 October 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 22 October 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 22 October 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
Sept 17
Today % Change from
Sept 17
Today % Change from
Sept 17
Global (7.6 B) 241,886,635 7% 6,655,399,359 18% 4,919,755 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 6,122,763 5%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 184,051 11% 744,464 96% 2,389 2%
Côte d’Ivoire (25.1M) 61,113 5% 2,892,373 97% 689 28%
Kenya (51.4 M)  252,308 3% 4,674,897 51% 5,238 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 61,738 1% 1,209,535 21% 2,296 2%
Mozambique (29.5M) 151,157 1% 3,799,385 58% 1,927 2%
Namibia (2.5 M) 128,395 1% 584,381 97% 3,543 3%
South Africa (57.8 M) 2,917,846 2% 20,200,231 38% 88,754 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 26,034 1804% 885,579 186% 724 1348%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 132,487 4% 5,714,824 26% 4,660 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 43,694,966 3%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 117,201 16% 23,188,829 19% 2,693 30%
India (1.4 B) 34,127,450 2% 986,769,411 31% 452,811 2%
Europe (741.4 M) 74,193,807 9%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,701,600 16% 14,425,128 31% 62,389 14%
Americas (1 B) 92,524,668 6%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 23,406 10% 102,168 102% 658 10%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 87,723 13% 852,062 21% 2,129 21%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 54,405 15% 1,165,204 21% 1,613 16%
USA (382.2 M) 44,862,573 9% 416,110,353 7% 724,605 10%

*Total vaccine doses administered
Source, COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source, population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

New USG Updates: The most recent PEPFAR update was from 13 October 2021, but no additions were noted. To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit: https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/.

17 September 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 17 September 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 17 September 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
Aug 13
Today % Change from
Aug 13
Today % Change from
Aug 13
Global (7.6 B) 226,236,577 11% 5,634,533,040 27% 4,654,548 8%
Africa (1.2 B) 5,854,409 12%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 165,644 27% 379,684 49% 2,337 28%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 58,341 13% 1,467,277 30% 540 56%
Kenya (51.4 M) 244,826 13% 3,090,932 71% 4,949 17%
Malawi (18.1 M) 61,207 7% 1,001,022 46% 2,246 19%
Mozambique (29.5M) 149,671 10% 2,405,890 74% 1,898 15%
Namibia (2.5 M) 126,498 4% 297,066 36% 3,448 7%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
2,869,201 12% 14,670,161 84% 85,468 13%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 1,367 0% 310,103 50 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 127,083 8% 4,552,455 58% 4,551 14%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 42,316,882 7%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 101,443 22% 19,536,084 48% 2,067 28%
India (1.4 B) 33,347,325 4% 752,238,324 45% 443,928 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 67,798,955 9%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,331,540 3% 10,987,963 68% 54,651 3%
Americas (1 B) 87,208,536 10%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 21,318 4% 50,624 260% 596 3%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 77,497 39% 606,286 64% 1,757 40%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 47,363 17% 962,287 49% 1,386 21%
USA (382.2 M) 41,229,421 15% 379,082,955 7% 659,336 7%

*Total vaccine doses administered
Source, COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source, population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

New USG Updates: PEPFAR technical guidance has12 December not been updated. The most recent update was from 18 August 2021, but no additions were noted. To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/.

13 August 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 13 August 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 13 August 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED* DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
16 July
Today % Change from
16 July
Today % Change from
16 July
Global (7.6 B) 204,644,849 9% 4,428,168,759 30% 4,323,139 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 5,220,316 16%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 130,771 63% 254,908 50% 1,832 46%
Côte d’Ivoire (25.1M) 51,732 6% 1,131,037 36% 347 9%
Kenya (51.4 M) 215,730 13% 1,804,375 22% 4,241 13%
Malawi (18.1 M) 56,952 40% 685,630 39% 1,895 49%
Mozambique (29.5M) 135,528 45% 1,386,326 173% 1,655 60%
Namibia (2.5 M) 121,603 12% 218,451 41% 3,226 44%
South Africa (57.8 M) 2,554,240 14% 7,981,822 88% 75,744 16%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 1,367 50
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 117,954 55% 2,886,822 94% 3,991 71%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 39,594,191 9%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 83,384 31% 13,165,840 56% 1,614 57%
India (1.4 B) 32,077,706 4% 519,080,524 38% 429,669 4%
Europe (741.4 M) 61,931,642 8%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,262,601 1% 6,533,719 87% 53,173 1%
Americas (1 B) 79,380,211 7%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 20,507 6% 14,074 576 18%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 55,790 10% 369,960 28% 1,254 10%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 40,574 15% 645,245 78% 1,144 19%
USA (382.2 M) 35,957,692 7% 353,040,395 6% 613,647 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
**Total vaccine doses administered
*** On 14 July, Haiti received its first 500,000 doses of the vaccine
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates: For weekly updates, visit the World Health Organizations (WHO) COVID-19 weekly epidemiological update. The report includes a global overview, including cases and death updates by region, analyses of the previous week’s COVID-19 epidemiological data, information on variants of concern, and vaccine performance against variants of concern.

I-TECH Updates:  I-TECH Seattle employees will be returning to the office on September 13, 2021. Department leadership is monitoring COVID-19 status closely to ensure that policies are aligned to public health guidance.

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance has been updated over the past month, with the most recent updates made 11 August 2021. Updates from 11 August 2021 include a new section on vaccine readiness and a revised continuum of virtual DREAMS content delivery figure.

16 July 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Monthly Digest, 16 July 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 16 July 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) Today % Change from
May 27
Today % Change from
May 27
Today % Change from
May 27
Global (7.6 B) 188,332,972 12% 3,402,275,866 120% 4,063,453 16%
Africa (1.2 B) 4,495,778 29%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 80,153 45% 170,181 212% 1,253 55%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 48,959 4% 829,070 66% 319 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 190,183 12% 1,477,916 57% 3,737 21%
Malawi (18.1 M) 40,713 19% 492,390 42% 1,276 11%
Mozambique (29.5M) 93,429 32% 508,184 29% 1,033 24%
Namibia (2.5 M) 108,785 103% 154,754 128% 2,240 184%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
2,236,805 36% 4,236,718 2215% 65,595 17%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 76,281 97% 1,491,397 61% 2,332 47%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 36,402,329 17%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 63,611 136% 8,421,951 165% 1,025 439%
India (1.4 B) 30,987,880 13% 377,352,501 88% 411,989 31%
Europe (741.4 M) 57,472,768 6%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,242,868 2% 3,489,723 129% 52,685 5%
Americas (1 B) 74,411,952 12%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 19,374 38% *** *** 487 67%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 50,913 6% 288,320 75% 1,136 22%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 35,236 69% 362,583 476% 963 136%
USA (382.2 M) 33,643,529 2% 334,282,915 18% 603,170 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
**Total vaccine doses administered
*** On 14 July, Haiti received its first 500,000 doses of the vaccine
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates
New cases and deaths increased from previous week in all regions except the Americas. The Delta variant, which is a variant of concern, has been reported in all regions of the world and is likely going to become the dominant variant in Africa in the coming weeks. Many parts of Africa are experiencing a third wave of COVID-19 epidemic.

COVID-19 vaccine inequity is a global health and human rights crisis. About one-fourth of the world population has received at least one COVID-19 dose, but most vaccines administered are in a small number of high and upper middle-income countries. Vaccination supply shortages, medical oxygen, laboratory tests and reagents, and personal protective equipment are ongoing challenges to effectively responding to the pandemic.

I-TECH Updates
According to updated University of Washington travel policies, international travel is allowed without a waiver to countries where US Department of State (DOS) warnings are currently Level 3 and below. For countries where DOS warnings are currently Level 4, a travel waiver is still required and travel is discouraged. This includes Botswana, Haiti, India, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Trinidad and Tobago. I-TECH COVID Hub is creating a travel guidance document for international travel and will distribute it in the coming weeks.

New USG Guidance
PEPFAR technical guidance has been updated over the past month, with the most recent updates made on 14 July 2021. These most recent updates include information on the Delta variant; a link to the World Health Organization’s infection, prevention, and control updated interim guidance; reporting flexibility updates; orphan and vulnerable children and DREAMS program updates; and laboratory reagent information. To find future PEPFAR technical guidance updates, visit: https://www.state.gov/pepfar/coronavirus/.

21 May 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 21 May 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 21 May 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 165,069,258 3% 1,422,282,170 13% 3,422,907 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,425,102 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 53,318 9% 54,620 0% 774 3%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 46,777 1% 332,895 28% 298 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 166,382 1% 934,526 1% 3,035 3%
Malawi (18.1 M) 34,238 0.2% 334,682 3% 1,153 0%
Mozambique (29.5M) 70,509 0.3% 393,105 10% 828 0.2%
Namibia (2.5 M) 51,827 3% 38,855 0% 739 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,621,362 1% 182,983 0% 55,507 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 38,612 0.4% 814,258 15% 1,583 0.3%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 29,543,024 8%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 23,697 12% 3,180,915 39% 164 15%
India (1.4 B) 26,031,991 8% 185,766,518 6% 291,331 11%
Europe (741.4 M) 53,901,375 1%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,170,398 2% 603,741 0% 48,899 3%
Americas (1 B) 65,573,768 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 13,624 3% 276 3%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 47,672 1% 153,146 5% 902 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 17,669 23% 62,947 6% 331 41%
USA (382.2 M) 32,706,250 1% 264,357,485 3% 582,346 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

14 May 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 14 May 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 14 May 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 160,686,749 4% 1,264,164,553 8% 3,335,948 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,378,531 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 49,041 2% 54,260 0% 751 4%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 46,516 1% 260,674 68% 292 0.3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 164,386 2% 926,036 3% 2,950 4%
Malawi (18.1 M) 34,186 0.1% 324,328 6% 1,153 0.2%
Mozambique (29.5M) 70,287 0.3% 355,995 151% 826 1%
Namibia (2.5 M) 50,515 2% 38,855 158% 702 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,602,031 1% 182,983 0% 54,968 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 38,466 0.3% 709,772 27% 1,579 0.3%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 27,409,639 13%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 21,141 25% 2,284,788 0% 142 29%
India (1.4 B) 24,046,809 14% 175,171,482 9% 262,317 14%
Europe (741.4 M) 53,259,824 2%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,135,886 2% 603,741 3% 47,333 4%
Americas (1 B) 64,341,942 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 13,268 1% 269 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 47,020 2% 145,258 4% 834 5%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 14,417 23% 59,377 37% 235 27%
USA (382.2 M) 32,496,486 1% 256,126,513 6% 578,257 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: Updated PEPFAR technical guidance was released on 12 May 2021. Sections on supply chain and personal protective equipment (PPE) were updated.

7 May 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 7 May 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 7 May 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 154,815,600 3% 1,170,942,729 17% 3,236,104 2%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,340,121 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 47,851 2% 54,620 0% 724 2%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 46,231 1% 155,018 31% 291 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 161,393 2% 900,986 9% 2,825 4%
Malawi (18.1 M) 34,143 0.2% 307,218 7% 1,151 0.3%
Mozambique (29.5M) 70,052 0.3% 141,640 0% 818 0.5%
Namibia (2.5 M) 49,323 2% 15,060 0% 667 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,588,221 1% 182,983 0% 54,557 0.4%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 38,357 0.3% 559,777 29% 1,574 0.4%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 24,269,809 11%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 16,971 34% 2,284,788 19% 110 21%
India (1.4 B) 21,077,410 12% 160,418,105 9% 230,168 10%
Europe (741.4 M) 52,441,169 2%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,097,024 1% 584,620 11% 45,451 3%
Americas (1 B) 62,910,688 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 13,164 1% 263 4%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 46,194 2% 139,993 3% 794 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 11,706 15% 43,277 88% 185 13%
USA (382.2 M) 32,167,970 1% 241,639,173 8% 572,987 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was released on 6 May 2021. Updates include evidence that people living with HIV (PLHIV) are at risk for severe COVID-19. Two articles describing the impact COVID-19 among PLHIV were linked.

30 April 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 30 April 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 30 April 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 150,110,310 4% 1,001,457,859 11% 3,158,792 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,301,086 2%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 46,934 5% 54,380 18% 712 4%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 45,998 1% 118,224 14% 286 3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 158,821 3% 827,671 10% 2,707 7%
Malawi (18.1 M) 34,062 0% 285,824 8% 1,148 1%
Mozambique (29.5M) 69,864 1% 141,640 102% 814 1%
Namibia (2.5 M) 48,177 3% 15,060 320% 638 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,579,536 1% 182,983 0% 54,331 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0% 21 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 38,235 1% 433,939 34% 1,567 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 21,847,392 14%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 12,641 54% 1,915,966 24% 91 54%
India (1.4 B) 18,762,976 15% 147,727,054 14% 208,330 11%
Europe (741.4 M) 51,614,588 3%      
Ukraine (42 M) 2,069,537 4% 528,032 17% 44,805 7%
Americas (1 B) 61,853,321 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 13,056 1% 254 1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 45,414 2% 135,725 0.2% 770 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 10,170 10% 22,996 81% 163 4%
USA (382.2 M) 31,889,171 1% 223,293,713 10% 568,836 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was released on 28 April 2021. No new updates.

23 April 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 23 April 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 23 April 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 144,099,374 4% 899,936,102 20% 3,061,912 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,249,234 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 44,702 3% 46,158 36% 684 3%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 45,697 1% 104,153 71% 277 3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 153,488 4% 750,998 154% 2,540 5%
Malawi (18.1 M) 33,975 0% 263,931 15% 1,142 1%
Mozambique (29.5M) 69,437 1% 70,000 0% 805 1%
Namibia (2.5 M) 46,954 2% 3,587 139% 609 3%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,569,935 1% 182,923 0% 53,940 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 37,980 2% 325,007 68% 1,555 0%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 19,237,975 12%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 8,193 57% 1,541,896 177% 59 64%
India (1.4 B) 16,263,695 14% 130,027,370 25% 186,920 7%
Europe (741.4 M) 50,075,398 3%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,990,353 5% 450,651 19% 41,266 7%
Americas (1 B) 60,513,486 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,944 1% 251 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 44,502 3% 135,473 184% 751 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 9,216 7% 12,725 276% 157 6%
USA (382.2 M) 31,530,214 1% 202,553,704 13% 564,091 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was released on 21 April 2021. Updates describe HIV testing guidance in communities with continued COVID-19 transmission.

16 April 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 16 April 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 16 April 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 138,411,980 4% 751,445,145 12% 2,974,642 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,202,032 1%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 43,444 4% 33,981 663 8%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 45,265 1% 60,823 23% 269 4%
Kenya (51.4 M) 148,128 4% 295,975 5% 2,420 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 33,891 0.5% 229,220 44% 1,134 1%
Mozambique (29.5M) 68,927 1% 70,000 0% 794 1%
Namibia (2.5 M) 46,051 2% 1,501 0% 592 6%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,561,559 0.4% 182,983 0% 53,498 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 37,369 1% 193,677 126% 1,548 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 17,176,307 8%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 5,218 72% 555,650 0% 36 50%
India (1.4 B) 14,291,917 9% 104,365,035 18% 174,308 4%
Europe (741.4 M) 48,473,383 4%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,903,765 6% 378,269 13% 38,658 7%
Americas (1 B) 59,053,949 3%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,876 0.5% 252 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 43,240 4% 47,728 42% 697 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 8,596 4% 3,385 198% 148 2%
USA (382.2 M) 31,103,006 2% 179,166,363 16% 559,010 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was posted on 14 April 2021, but no updates were included.

9 April 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 9 April 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 9 April 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 133,146,550 4% 669,248,795 22% 2,888,503 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,155,757 2%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 41,710 5% 616 8%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 44,975 2% 49,323 34% 258 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 143,063 7% 282,518 2,990% 2,292 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 33,738 1% 159,574 43% 1,125 1%
Mozambique (29.5M) 68,466 1% 70,000 0% 788 2%
Namibia (2.5 M) 45,054 2% 1,501 888% 557 7%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,554,975 >1% 182,983 0% 53,173 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 37,052 >1% 85,866 95% 1,532 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 15,853,498 6%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 3,028 24% 555,650 38% 24 71%
India (1.4 B) 13,060,542 7% 88,372,277 62% 167,642 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 46,694,768 4%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,803,998 7% 334,578 35% 35,962 8%
Americas (1 B) 57,510,180 3%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,816 >1% 252 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 41,064 6% 33,642 0% 646 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 8,235 3% 1,137 0% 145 2%
USA (382.2 M) 30,615,849 2% 154,238,865 14% 553,801 1%

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 7 April 2021. Guidance related to continuing HIV testing in communities where COVID-19 is increasing was described. Also, if you are considering Site Improvement through Monitoring System (SIMS) adaptations due to COVID-19, please review SIMS 4.1 Implementation Guide during planning.

2 April 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 2 April 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 2 April 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 128,540,982 3% 547,727,346 20% 2,808,308 2%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,097,533 2%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 39,848 6% 568 17
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 43,889 6% 36,832 32% 244 9%
Kenya (51.4 M) 134,058 7% 9,144 0% 2,153 4%
Malawi (18.1 M) 33,551 1% 111,628 188% 1,117 1%
Mozambique (29.5M) 67,579 1% 70,000 0% 775 3%
Namibia (2.5 M) 44,139 3% 152 523 4%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,548,157 1% 182,983 0% 52,846 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0% 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 36,882 0% 44,135 0% 1,523 0%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 14,911,540 3%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 2,440 30% 401,972 0% 14 100%
India (1.4 B) 12,221,665 3% 54,665,820 9% 162,927 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 45,112,584 4%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,691,737 6% 248,736 60% 33,246 7%
Americas (1 B) 55,941,329 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,762 0% 252 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 39,237 6% 33,642 109% 596 9%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 8,004 1% 1,137 0% 142 1%
USA (382.2 M) 30,095,776 1% 135,544,787 15% 545,887 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

26 March 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 26 March 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 26 March 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases, Vaccinations**, and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 124,871,140 3% 456,822,613 25% 2,744,543 2%
Africa (1.2 B) 3,036,768 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 37,559 7% 485 9%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1M) 41,307 8% 27,866 257% 224 5%
Kenya (51.4 M) 124,707 7% 9,144 0% 2,066 7%
Malawi (18.1 M) 33,354 1% 38,707 326% 1,105 2%
Mozambique (29.5M) 66,649 2% 70,000 752 3%
Namibia (2.5 M) 42,864 3% *** *** 502 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,540,009 0% 182,983 9% 52,373 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 0%* 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 ) 36,749 1% 44,135 12% 1,516 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 14,476,676 3%    
Cambodia (16.3M) 1,872 19% 401,972 22% 7 600%
India (1.4 B) 11,846,652 3% 50,075,162 44% 160,949 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 43,403,111 4%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,596,575 6% 155,587 151% 31,135 6%
Americas (1 B) 54,800,639 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,736 0% 251 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 37,128 11% 16,096 496% 546 7%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,903 1% 1,137 0% 141 1%
USA (382.2 M) 29,718,930 1% 118,170,648 20% 540,320 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 24 March 2021. Guidance on voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) programming has been updated, specifically on re-starting programs in the context of COVID-19.

19 March 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 19 March 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 19 March 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED VACCINATED** DECEASED
Area (Population) This Week % Change This Week % Change This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 121,209,510 3% 364,184,603 2,680,469 2%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,974,616 2%      
Botswana (2.3 M) 34,999 6% 447 8%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 38,282 6% 7,820 214 4%
Kenya (51.4 M) 116,310 5% 9,144 1,937 2%
Malawi (18.1 M) 32,970 1% 9,091 1,088 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
65,197 3% 733 4%
Namibia (2.5 M) 41,546 3% 477 6%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,532,497 1% 168,413 51,634 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 0%* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 36,553 1% 39,550 1,508 1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 14,080,960 2%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 1,578 29% 328,526 1 0%
India (1.4 B) 11,514,331 2% 34,859,345 159,370 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 41,811,235 3%      
Ukraine (42 M) 1,504,076 6% 62,083 29,253 6%
Americas (1 B) 53,536,387 2%  
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,688 0% 251 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 33,366 15% 2,700 511 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,807 1% 1,137 140 0%
USA (382.2 M) 29,317,562 1% 98,081,045 532,971 1%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
**Total doses administered
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 17 March 2021. Updates included guidance for incorporating infection prevention and control interventions and emphasis on HIV self-testing for monitoring pre-exposure prophylaxis. Links to other resources including information about hand hygiene and maximizing face coverings and medical masks were also included.

12 March 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 12 March 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 12 March 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 115,094,614 118,058,503 3% 2,560,995 2,621,046 2%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,871,972 2,924,244 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 30,727 32,912 7% 332 413 24%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 33,285 36,028 8% 194 206 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 106,801 110,356 3% 1,866 1,898 2%
Malawi (18.1 M) 32,229 32,614 1% 1,056 1,077 2%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
60,395 63,174 5% 668 707 6%
Namibia (2.5 M) 39,297 40,451 3% 434 448 3%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,516,262 1,524,174 1% 50,366 51,015 1%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 36,179 36,341 >1% 1,4,78 1,489 >1%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 13,632,174 13,819,871 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 932 1,225 31% 0 1
India (1.4 B) 11,173,761 11,308,846 1% 157,548 158,306 >1%
Europe (741.4 M) 39,229,992 40,438,291 3%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,374,762 1,425,522 4% 26,591 27,685 4%
Americas (1 B) 51,158,352 52,386,995 2%
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,536 12,632 1% 250 251 >1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 24,444 28,968 19% 436 475 9%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,723 7,743 >1% 139 140 1%
USA (382.2 M) 28,468,736 28,940,137 2% 515,013 525,495 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

International Updates

Vaccine rollout has begun! In Jamaica, health care workers and vulnerable groups will begin getting the AstraZeneca vaccine this week. Mozambique will also start vaccinating 65,000 health care workers with either Sinovac or AstraZeneca vaccines this week. In Zimbabwe, Phase 1 of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Program has started, which includes health care workers — 36,019 frontline health workers in Zimbabwe have been vaccinated to date!

New USG Guidance

The PEPFAR technical guidance for COVID-19 was updated on 11 March 2021. The update includes information about three independent coronavirus variants.

5 March 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 5 March 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 5 March 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 112,456,453 115,094,614 2% 2,497,514 2,560,995 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,819,018 2,871,972 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 27,721 30,727 11% 300 332 11%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 32,295 33,285 3% 188 194 3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 104,780 106,801 2% 1,839 1,866 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 31,295 32,229 3% 1,029 1,056 3%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
56,920 60,395 6% 608 668 10%
Namibia (2.5 M) 37,976 39,297 3% 413 434 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,507,448 1,516,262 1% 49,523 50,366 2%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 35,960 36,179 1% 1,456 1,478 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 13,466,857 13,632,174 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 741 932 26% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 11,063,491 11,173,761 1% 156,825 157,548 0%
Europe (741.4 M) 38,176,678 39,229,992 3%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,325,841 1,374,762 4% 25,596 26,591 4%
Americas (1 B) 50,056,801 51,158,352 2%
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,352 12,536 1% 247 250 1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 22,267 24,444 10% 410 436 6%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,690 7,723 0% 139 139 0%
USA (382.2 M) 28,028,815 28,468,736 2% 501,414 515,013 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 3 March 2021. The update includes guidance on COVID-19 vaccines people and living with HIV.

26 February 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 26 February 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 26 February 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 109,594,835 112,456,453 3% 2,424,060 2,497,514 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,760,712 2,819,018 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 25,812 27,721 7% 226 300 33%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 31,497 32,295 3% 180 188 4%
Kenya (51.4 M) 103,332 104,780 1% 1,801 1,839 2%
Malawi (18.1 M) 29,634 31,295 6% 976 1,029 5%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
52,629 56,920 8% 561 608 8%
Namibia (2.5 M) 36,501 37,976 4% 394 413 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,496,439 1,507,448 1% 48,478 49,523 2%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 35,423 35,960 2% 1,418 1,456 3%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 13,272,693 13,466,857 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 483 741 53% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,950,201 11,063,491 1% 156,014 156,825 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 37,112,768 38,176,678 3%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,287,141 1,325,841 3% 24,852 25,596 3%
Americas (1 B) 48,788,209 50,056,801 3%
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,206 12,352 1% 247 247 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 20,016 22,267 11% 381 410 8%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,656 7,690 0% 138 139 1%
USA (382.2 M) 27,491,574 28,028,815 2% 484,379 501,414 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

19 February 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 19 February 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 19 February 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 107,252,265 109,594,835 2% 2,355,339 2,424,060 3%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,694,171 2,760,712 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 24,435 25,812 6% 179 226 26%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 30,240 31,497 4% 169 180 7%
Kenya (51.4 M) 102,221 103,332 1% 1,791 1,801 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 28,050 29,634 6% 900 976 8%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
46,736 52,629 13% 486 561 15%
Namibia (2.5 M) 35,242 36,501 4% 378 394 4%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,482,412 1,496,439 1% 47,145 48,478 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 34,864 35,423 2% 1,364 1,418 4%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 13,141,859 13,272,693 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 479 483 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,880,603 10,950,201 1% 155,447 156,014 0.4%
Europe (741.4 M) 36,132,951 37,112,768 3%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,258,094 1,287,141 2% 24,058 24,852 3%
Americas (1 B) 47,814,602 48,788,209 2%
Haiti (11.1 M) 12,016 12,206 2% 246 247 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 18,237 20,016 10% 363 381 5%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,631 7,656 0% 136 138 1%
USA (382.2 M) 27,020,890 27,491,574 2% 468,051 484,379 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

12 February 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 12 February 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 12 February 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 104,165,066 107,252,265 3% 2,265,354 2,355,339 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,616,892 2,694,171 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 22,738 24,435 7% 148 179 21%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 28,739 30,240 5% 158 169 7%
Kenya (51.4 M) 101,159 102,221 1% 1,769 1,791 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 25,499 28,050 10% 761 900 18%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
41,433 46,736 13% 415 486 17%
Namibia (2.5 M) 34,372 35,242 3% 359 378 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,463,016 1,482,412 1% 45,344 47,145 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 33,964 34,864 3% 1,269 1,364 7%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 12,982,540 13,141,859 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 470 479 2% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,802,591 10,880,603 1% 154,823 155,447 0.4%
Europe (741.4 M) 35,003,091 36,132,951 3%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,232,246 1,258,094 2% 23,229 24,058 4%
Americas (1 B) 46,313,540 47,814,602 3%
Haiti (11.1 M) 11,692 12,016 3% 245 246 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 16,250 18,237 12% 355 363 2%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,586 7,631 1% 135 136 1%
USA (382.2 M) 26,172,274 27,020,890 3% 443,256 468,051 6%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance: PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 10 February 2021. No new guidance was given, but the laboratory guidance section was edited for consistency.

5 February 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 5 February 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 5 February 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 100,819,363 104,165,066 3% 2,176,159 2,265,354 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,523,516 2,616,892 4%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 20,658 22,738 10% 124 148 19%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 27,456 28,739 5% 151 158 5%
Kenya (51.4 M) 100,323 101,159 1% 1,751 1,769 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 21,660 25,499 17% 555 761 37%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
34,926 41,433 19% 336 415 24%
Namibia (2.5 M) 33,255 34,372 3% 332 359 8%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,430,648 1,463,016 2% 42,550 45,344 7%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 32,304 33,964 5% 1,122 1,269 13%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 12,796,765 12,982,540 1%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 463 470 2% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,720,048 10,802,591 1% 154,010 154,823 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 33,711,696 35,003,091 4%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,206,412 1,232,246 2% 22,351 23,229 4%
Americas (1 B) 44,765,625 46,313,540 3%
Haiti (11.1 M) 11,402 11,692 3% 244 245 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 15,435 16,250 5% 344 355 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,509 7,586 1% 134 135 1%
USA (382.2 M) 25,354,044 26,172,274 3% 425,670 443,256 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

International Updates

The national lockdown in Zimbabwe has been extended to 15 February 2021.

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 3 February 2021. Updates included guidance related to PEPFAR funding for COVID-19 uses. PEPFAR implementing partners may use funds from their PEPFAR program management budgets to pay for COVID-19 testing, test kits, and testing supplies ONLY for the purpose of providing COVID testing for PEPFAR-supported IP staff (HRH) as necessary to ensure safe, uninterrupted delivery of HIV services.

29 January 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 29 January 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 29 January 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 96,012,792 100,819,363 5% 2,075,870 2,176,159 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,395,260 2,523,516 5%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 18,630 20,658 11% 88 124 41%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 25,597 27,456 7% 142 151 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 99,444 100,323 1% 1,736 1,751 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 14,851 21,660 46% 354 555 57%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
29,396 34,926 19% 271 336 24%
Namibia (2.5 M) 31,253 33,255 6% 301 332 10%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,369,426 1,430,648 4% 38,854 42,550 10%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 29,408 32,304 10% 879 1,122 28%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 12,597,011 12,796,765 2%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 456 463 2% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,625,428 10,720,048 1% 153,032 154,010 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 31,426,124 33,711,696 7%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,177,621 1,206,412 2% 21,499 22,351 4%
Americas (1 B) 42,807,169 44,765,625 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 10,963 11,402 4% 240 244 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 14,550 15,435 6% 331 344 4%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,430 7,509 1% 133 134 1%
USA (382.2 M) 24,255,155 25,354,044 5% 402,803 425,670 6%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 27 January 2021. Updates include information regarding coronavirus mutations, training recommendations for PEPFAR health care workers to respond to HIV in the context of COVID-19, and guidance on ART initiation in newly HIV diagnosed persons with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Clarification on DREAMS activities and reporting and SIMs requirements were also included.

22 January 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 22 January 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 22 January 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 91,492,398 96,012,792 5% 1,979,507 2,075,870 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,237,380 2,395,260 7%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 16,051 18,630 16% 48 88 83%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 24,186 25,597 6% 140 142 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 98,555 99,444 1% 1,720 1,736 1%
Malawi (18.1 M) 9,991 14,851 49% 275 354 29%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
23,726 29,396 24% 205 271 32%
Namibia (2.5 M) 29,183 31,253 7% 271 301 11%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,278,303 1,369,426 7% 35,140 38,854 11%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 24,256 29,408 21% 589 879 49%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 12,399,976 12,597,011 2%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 426 456 7% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,527,683 10,625,428 1% 151,918 153,032 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 29,784,909 31,426,124 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,138,764 1,177,621 3% 20,376 21,499 6%
Americas (1 B) 40,548,449 42,807,169 6%
Haiti (11.1 M) 10,569 10,963 4% 238 240 1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 13,915 14,550 5% 322 331 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,305 7,430 2% 129 133 3%
USA (382.2 M) 22,871,330 24,255,155 6% 381,522 402,803 6%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

International Updates

Through gene sequencing, Jamaica has confirmed one case of the United Kingdom (UK) COVID-19 variant in a national who was returning from the UK.

I-TECH COVID-19 Staff Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Jamaica 1 4
Zimbabwe 12

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

15 January 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 15 January 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 15 January 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 86,436,449 91,492,398 6% 1,884,341 1,979,507 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 2,047,423 2,237,380 9%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 14,805 16,051 8% 42 48 14%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 22,855 24,186 6% 138 140 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 97,398 98,555 1% 1,694 1,720 2%
Malawi (18.1 M) 7,337 9,991 36% 199 275 38%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
19,667 23,726 21% 172 205 19%
Namibia (2.5 M) 26,310 29,183 11% 235 271 15%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
1,149,591 1,278,303 11% 31,368 35,140 12%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0% 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 17,804 24,256 36% 431 589 37%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 12,194,847 12,399,976 2%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 386 426 10% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 10,413,417 10,527,683 1% 150,570 151,918 1%
Europe (741.4 M) 27,961,717 29,784,909 7%    
Ukraine (42 M) 1,099,493 1,138,764 4% 19,505 20,376 4%
Americas (1 B) 37,975,799 40,548,449 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 10,203 10,569 4% 236 238 1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 13,368 13,915 4% 306 322 5%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 7,196 7,305 2% 127 129 2%
USA (382.2 M) 21,170,475 22,871,330 8% 358,111 381,522 7%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

International Updates

The Ministry of Health in Namibia has sent samples to South Africa for genome analysis to determine whether the COVID-19 strain in South Africa is in Namibia, too.

I-TECH Updates

Many I-TECH network offices have maintained or resumed working from home given the increase in cases. Programs are constantly adapting to local needs across the network due to COVID-19 cases and government shifts. In Zimbabwe, the Zim-TTECH voluntary medical male circumcision team was recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Office of the United States Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) for their flexibility and innovation in supporting care and treatment services during COVID-19.

I-TECH COVID-19 Staff Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Jamaica 1 4
Malawi                      4 4
Mozambique 1
Namibia 6 4
Zimbabwe 16 21

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 6 January 2021 and 13 January 2021. In the 6 January guidance, information related to new coronavirus mutations was described with links to information on the World Health Organization website. The guidance also included guidelines for eye protection worn with medical masks. The 13 January guidance addresses site safety–including infection prevention and control interventions–and gives laboratory service guidance for funding COVID-19 testing, test kits, and supplies for PEPFAR-supported human resources for health staff.

8 January 2021

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 8 January 2021

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 8 January 2021.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) December 18 This Week % Change December 18 This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 73,275,943 86,436,449 18% 1,650,348 1,884,341 14%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,671,539 2,047,423 22%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 12,873 14,805 15% 38 42 11%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 21,741 22,855 5% 133 138 4%
Kenya (51.4 M) 92,459 97,398 5% 1,604 1,694 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 6,091 7,337 20% 187 199 6%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
17,143 19,667 15% 145 172 19%
Namibia (2.5 M) 17,276 26,310 52% 164 235 43%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
883,687 1,149,591 30% 23,827 31,368 32%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 11,522 17,804 55% 310 431 39%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 11,537,081 12,194,847 6%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 362 386 7% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 9,979,447 10,413,417 4% 144,789 150,570 4%
Europe (741.4 M) 22,884,885 27,961,717 22%    
Ukraine (42 M) 931,751 1,099,493 18% 15,996 19,505 22%
Americas (1 B) 31,573,039 37,975,799 20%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,627 10,203 6% 234 236 1%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 11,968 13,368 12% 279 306 10%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 6,917 7,196 4% 123 127 3%
USA (382.2 M) 16,682,649 21,170,475 27% 304,960 358,111 17%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
S
ource population: World Bank

International Updates

Zimbabwe is experiencing a second wave and is implementing lockdown measures starting 4 January 2021 for 30 days. Ukraine will go into a nationwide lockdown from 8 January to 24 January 2021. In both Ukraine and Zimbabwe, only essential services will remain open.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Jamaica 1 4
Malawi                      2 3
Mozambique 1
Zimbabwe 11

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 16 December 2020. COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for people living with HIV (PLHIV) was released. CDC advises that all PLHIV may receive mRNA COVID-19 vaccines unless otherwise contraindicated.

18 December 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 18 December 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 18 December 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 68,845,368 73,275,943 6% 1,570,304 1,650,348 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,585,594 1,671,539 5%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 12,058 12,873 7% 34 38 12%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 21,547 21,741 1% 133 133 0%
Kenya (51.4 M) 89,661 92,459 3% 1,552 1,604 3%
Malawi (18.1 M) 6,051 6,091 1% 186 187 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
16,440 17,143 4% 138 145 5%
Namibia (2.5 M) 15,472 17,276 12% 155 164 6%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
828,598 883,687 7% 22,574 23,827 6%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 11,007 11,522 5% 304 310 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 11,279,038 11,537,081 2%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 357 362 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 9,796,769 9,979,447 2% 142,186 144,789 2%
Europe (741.4 M) 21,128,809 22,884,885 8%    
Ukraine (42 M) 858,714 931,751 9% 14,470 15,996 11%
Americas (1 B) 29,467,378 31,573,039 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,434 9,627 2% 233 234 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 11,443 11,968 5% 270 279 3%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 6,808 6,917 2% 122 123 1%
USA (382.2 M) 15,203,208 16,682,649 10% 287,384 304,960 6%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World
Bank

International Updates

International distribution of vaccines has begun! Visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website for more COVID-19 vaccine information and the COVAX site for information on WHO’s collaborating work with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and Gavi to ensure global equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Namibia 1 1
Zimbabwe 3 7
Haiti 4

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

11 December 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 11 December 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 11 December 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 64,350,473 68,845,368 7% 1,494,668 1,570,304 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,520,631 1,585,594 4%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 9,992 12,058 21% 31 34 10%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 21,361 21,547 1% 132 133 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 85,130 89,661 5% 1,484 1,552 5%
Malawi (18.1 M) 6,040 6,051 0% 185 186 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
15,866 16,440 4% 132 138 5%
Namibia (2.5 M) 14,477

 

15,472 7% 152 155 2%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
796,472 828,598 4% 21,709 22,574 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 10,243 11,007 7% 277 304 10%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 10,975,368 11,279,038 3%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 335 357 7% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 9,571,559 9,796,769 2% 139,188 142,186 2%
Europe (741.4 M) 19,291,035 21,128,809 10%    
Ukraine (42 M) 772,760 858,714 11% 12,960 14,470 12%
Americas (1 B) 27,438,341 29,467,378 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,313 9,434 1% 233 233 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 10,911 11,443 5% 259 270 4%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 6,704 6,808 2% 121 122 1%
USA (382.2 M) 13,759,500 15,203,208 10% 271,233 287,384 6%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World
Bank

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Namibia 1 1
Zimbabwe 2 0

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

4 December 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 4 December 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 4 December 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Two Weeks Ago* This Week % Change Two Weeks Ago* This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 56,261,952 64,350,473 14% 1,349,506 1,494,668 11%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,423,575 1,520,631 7%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 9,103 9,992 10% 29 31 7%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 21,045 21,361 2% 129 132 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 72,686 85,130 17% 1,313 1,484 13%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,998 6,040 1% 185 185 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
14,629 15,866 8% 119 132 11%
Namibia (2.5 M) 13,610 14,477

 

6% 140 152 9%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
757,144 796,472 5% 20,556 21,709 6%
Tanzania (56.3 M)** 509** 509** 0%** 21** 21** 0%**
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,981 10,243 14% 261 277 6%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 10,254,537 10,975,368 7%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 304 335 10% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 9,004,365 9,571,559 6% 132,162 139,188 5%
Europe (741.4 M) 15,999,670 19,291,035 21%    
Ukraine (42 M) 583,510 772,760 32% 10,369 12,960 25%
Americas (1 B) 24,035,426 27,438,341 14%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,208 9,313 1% 232 233 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 10,088 10,911 8% 235 259 10%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 6,180 6,704 8% 113 121 7%
USA (382.2 M) 11,413,788 13,759,500 21% 248,571 271,233 9%

* Last reported on 20 November 2020
** Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 29 April 2020
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Cases numbers are increasing globally. Some countries are reinstating or maintaining safety regulations and protocols. Cambodia has implemented new regulations; they have closed non-essential businesses including factories, reduced gathering sizes, and imposed travel restrictions. Jamaica extended a curfew through December.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have revised quarantine guidelines for people who have been exposed to COVID-19. The World Health Organization quarantine guidelines remain unchanged.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Zimbabwe 2 0

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

20 November 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 20 November 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 20 November 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 52,177,708 56,261,952 8% 1,286,063 1,349,506 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,380,175 1,423,575 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 7,835 9,103 16% 27 29 7%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 20,855 21,045 1% 127 129 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 65,804 72,686 10% 1,180 1,313 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,955 5,998 1% 185 185 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
13,991 14,629 5% 104 119 14%
Namibia (2.5 M) 13,292 13,610 2% 134 140 4%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
742,394 757,144 2% 20,011 20,556 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,667 8,981 4% 255 261 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 9,908,674 10,254,537 3%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 301 304 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 8,728,795 9,004,365 3% 128,668 132,162 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 14,184,665 15,999,670 13%    
Ukraine (42 M) 500,865 583,510 17% 9,145 10,369 13%
Americas (1 B) 22,438,205 24,035,426 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,152 9,208 1% 232 232 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 9,634 10,088 5% 225 235 4%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 5,904 6,180 5% 111 113 2%
USA (382.2 M) 10,266,631 11,413,788 11% 240,044 248,571 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

COVID-19 Presentation in Ukraine

In Ukraine on 17 November, Dr. Jeremy Penner presented an analysis of the latest evidence on COVID-19 treatment among people who live with HIV (PLHIV). The session attracted more than 100 attendees, including health care workers and officials from the Centers from Disease Control and Ministry of Health.

13 November 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 13 November 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 13 November 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 44,592,789 48,196,862 8% 1,175,553 1,226,813 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,308,041 1,340,843 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 6,283 6,642 6% 21 24 14%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 20,555 20,778 1% 124 126 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 51,851 58,587 13% 950 1,051 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,904 5,934 1% 184 184 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
12,415 13,283 7% 91 95 4%
Namibia (2.5 M) 12,806 13,046 2% 133 133 0%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
719,714 730,548 2% 19,111 19,585 2%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,320 8,427 1% 242 248 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 9,138,338 9,529,882 4%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 291 292 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 8,088,851 8,411,724 4% 121,090 124,985 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 10,229,790 12,158,760 19%    
Ukraine (42 M) 370,417 430,467 16% 6,868 7,924 15%
Americas (1 B) 20,151,141 21,168,405 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,054 9,109 1% 232 232 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 8,927 9,373 5% 202 217 7%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 5,594 5,764 3% 107 110 3%
USA (382.2 M) 8,763,682 9,387,978 7% 226,132 232,166 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a second wave starting in Zimbabwe.

6 November 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 6 November 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 6 November 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 44,592,789 48,196,862 8% 1,175,553 1,226,813 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,308,041 1,340,843 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 6,283 6,642 6% 21 24 14%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 20,555 20,778 1% 124 126 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 51,851 58,587 13% 950 1,051 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,904 5,934 1% 184 184 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
12,415 13,283 7% 91 95 4%
Namibia (2.5 M) 12,806 13,046 2% 133 133 0%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
719,714 730,548 2% 19,111 19,585 2%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,320 8,427 1% 242 248 2%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 9,138,338 9,529,882 4%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 291 292 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 8,088,851 8,411,724 4% 121,090 124,985 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 10,229,790 12,158,760 19%    
Ukraine (42 M) 370,417 430,467 16% 6,868 7,924 15%
Americas (1 B) 20,151,141 21,168,405 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 9,054 9,109 1% 232 232 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 8,927 9,373 5% 202 217 7%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 5,594 5,764 3% 107 110 3%
USA (382.2 M) 8,763,682 9,387,978 7% 226,132 232,166 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

New USG Guidance This Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 4 November. Significant updates were made to human resources for health, including resuming service delivery, maintaining essential services, training updates, COVID-19 testing recommendations for symptomatic PEPFAR-supported health care workers, personal protective equipment updates, and allowability of hazard pay.

30 October 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 30 October 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 30 October 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 41,332,899 44,592,789 8% 1,132,879 1,175,553 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,276,311 1,308,041 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 5,609 6,283 12% 21 21 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 20,363 20,555 1% 121 124 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 46,144 51,851 12% 858 950 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,864 5,904 1% 183 184 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
11,331 12,415 10% 79 91 15%
Namibia (2.5 M) 12,406 12,806 3% 133 133 0%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
708,359 719,714 2% 18,741 19,111 2%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,215 8,320 1% 236 242 3%
SE Asia (4.5 B) 8,744,934 9,138,338 4%    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 286 291 2% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 7,761,312 8,088,851 4% 117,306 121,090 3%
Europe (741.4 M) 8,576,945 10,229,790 19%    
Ukraine (42 M) 322,879 370,417 15% 6,043 6,868 14%
Americas (1 B) 19,174,454 20,151,141 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,979 9,054 1% 231 232 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 8,600 8,927 4% 179 202 13%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 5,392 5,594 4% 101 107 6%
USA (382.2 M) 8,248,149 8,763,682 6% 220,563 226,132 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Europe is experiencing a second surge of COVID-19 cases. The number of cases reported in the region increased 41% and accounts for 46% of total global COVID-19 cases. Ukraine has extended quarantine restrictions until 31 December due to the upsurge of new COVID-19 cases. In the United States, cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the country are at the highest level they have been during the pandemic.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts^

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Namibia 2 49

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined
^ not updated from last week

New USG Guidance This Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 28 October. Guidance related to orphan and vulnerable children programming, fertility awareness methods of contraception for women, and service delivery for faith and community-based organizations was updated.

23 October 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 23 October 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 23 October 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 38,619,674 41,332,899 7% 1,093,522 1,132,879 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,245,204 1,276,311 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 5,039 5,609 11% 20 21 5%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 20,217 20,363 1% 121 121 0%
Kenya (51.4 M) 42,541 46,144 8% 797 858 8%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,829 5,864 1% 181 183 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
10,392 11,331 9% 73 79 8%
Namibia (2.5 M) 12,069 12,406 3% 130 133 2%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
696,414 708,359 2% 18,151 18,741 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 8,055 8,215 2% 231 236 2%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 283 286 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 7,370,468 7,761,312 5% 112,161 117,306 5%
Europe (741.4 M) 7,406,193 8,576,945 16%    
Ukraine (42 M) 281,239 322,879 15% 5,302 6,043 14%
Americas (1 B) 18,312,080 19,174,454 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,908 8,979 1% 231 231 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 8,067 8,600 7% 160 179 12%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 5,154 5,392 5% 93 101 9%
USA (382.2 M) 7,833,851 8,248,149 5% 215,199 220,563 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

New USG Guidance This Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 21 October. Condom provision and cervical cancer screening guidance for integrated women’s health, and infant diagnosis and treatment services as part of maternal and child health were updated.

16 October 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 16 October 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 16 October 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 36,361,054 38,619,674 6% 1,056,186 1,093,522 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,218,782 1,245,204 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 3,219 5,039 57% 18 20 11%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 19,982 20,217 1% 120 121 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 40,178 42,541 6% 751 797 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,809 5,829 0% 180 181 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
9,639 10,392 8% 68 73 7%
Namibia (2.5 M) 11,781 12,069 2% 127 130 2%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
686,891 696,414 1% 17,408 18,151 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0% 21* 21 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 7,951 8,055 1% 229 231 1%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 282 283 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 6,906,151 7,370,468 7% 106,490 112,161 5%
Europe (741.4 M) 6,676,012 7,406,193 11%    
Ukraine (42 M) 250,538 281,239 12% 4,779 5,302 11%
Americas (1 B) 17,512,753 18,312,080 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,854 8,908 1% 230 231 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 7,273 8,067 11% 128 160 25%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 4,887 5,154 5% 84 93 11%
USA (382.2 M) 7,471,688 7,833,851 5% 210,338 215,199 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Ukraine 1 0

I-TECH Training Update

I-TECH has conducted nearly 70 COVID-related trainings, reaching approximately 6,000 staff, clinicians, and other health workers. Trainings have taken place in Cambodia, Caribbean Region, India, Kenya, Malawi, and Mozambique, with topics ranging from worker safety measures (hand washing, social distancing) to epidemiology, clinical management, and mental health and racial disparities amid COVID-19.

New USG Guidance This Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 14 October. Several updates were included regarding PrEP and VMMC services.

9 October 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 9 October 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 9 October 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 34,079,542 36,361,054 7% 1,015,963 1,056,186 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,187,269 1,218,782 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 3,172 3,219 1% 16 18 13%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 19,724 19,982 1% 120 120 0%
Kenya (51.4 M) 38,529 40,178 4% 711 751 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,773 5,809 1% 179 180 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
8,728 9,639 10% 61 68 11%
Namibia (2.5 M) 11,265 11,781 5% 121 127 5%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
674,339 686,891 2% 16,734 17,408 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 7,838 7,951 1% 228 229 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 278 282 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 6,394,068 6,906,151 8% 99,773 106,490 7%
Europe (741.4 M) 5,937,969 6,676,012 12%    
Ukraine (42 M) 213,028 250,538 18% 4,193 4,779 14%
Americas (1 B) 16,743,243 17,512,753 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,766 8,854 1% 229 230 0%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 6,555 7,273 11% 111 128 15%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 4,542 4,887 8% 76 84 11%
USA (382.2 M) 7,160,476 7,471,688 4% 205,666 210,338 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 23 September and 7 October. In the 23 September guidance, DREAMS implementation updates were described, and information about working with orphans and vulnerable children was updated. On 7 October, PEPFAR updated guiding principles for provision of services in PEPFAR-supported countries during COVID-19 pandemic related to safety, HIV recency testing, laboratory services, and supply chain/commodities.

2 October 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 2 October 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 2 October 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 32,029,704 34,079,542 6% 979,212 1,015,963 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,161,212 1,187,269 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 2,567 3,172 24% 13 16 23%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 19,430 19,724 2% 120 120 0%
Kenya (51.4 M) 37,348 38,529 3% 664 711 7%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,746 5,773 0% 179 179 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
7,262 8,728 20% 49 61 24%
Namibia (2.5 M) 10,663 11,265 6% 117 121 3%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
665,188 674,339 1% 16,206 16,734 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 7,725 7,838 1% 227 228 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 275 278 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 5,818,570 6,394,068 10% 92,290 99,773 8%
Europe (741.4 M) 5,450,309 5,937,969 9%    
Ukraine (42 M) 188,106 213,028 13% 3,757 4,193 12%
Americas (1 B) 15,987,906 16,743,243 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,646 8,766 1% 225 229 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 5,588 6,555 17% 77 111 44%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 4,222 4,542 8% 67 76 13%
USA (382.2 M) 6,868,828 7,160,476 4% 200,725 205,666 2%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Jamaica 0 2

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 30 September. Updates include food insecurity and nutritional status recommendations for persons living with HIV, orphans, and vulnerable children.

25 September 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 25 September 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 25 September 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 29,993,181 32,029,704 7% 942,934 979,212 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,142,390 1,161,212 2%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 2,567 2,567 0% 13 13 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 19,158 19,430 1% 120 120 0%
Kenya (51.4 M) 36,576 37,348 2% 642 664 3%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,711 5,746 1% 179 179 0%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
6,161 7,262 18% 39 49 26%
Namibia (2.5 M) 10,078 10,663 6% 108 117 8%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
655,572 665,188 1% 15,772 16,206 3%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 7,633 7,725 1% 224 227 1%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 275 275 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 5,214,677 5,818,570 12% 84,372 92,290 9%
Europe (741.4 M) 5,011,212 5,450,309 9%    
Ukraine (42 M) 166,244 188,106 13% 3,400 3,757 11%
Americas (1 B) 15,215,110 15,987,906 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,556 8,646 1% 220 225 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 4,374 5,588 28% 51 77 51%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 3,336 4,222 27% 58 67 16%
USA (382.2 M) 6,571,119 6,868,828 5% 195,638 200,725 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Jamaica 0 2

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

18 September 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 18 September 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 18 September 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 27,973,127 29,993,181 7% 905,426 942,934 4%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,101,618 1,142,390 4%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 2,126 2,567 21% 9 13 44%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 18,815 19,158 2% 119 120 1%
Kenya (51.4 M) 35,460 36,576 3% 607 642 6%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,653 5,711 1% 176 179 2%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
4,764 6,161 29% 28 39 39%
Namibia (2.5 M) 9,108 10,078 11% 93 108 16%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
642,431 655,572 2% 15,168 15,772 4%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 7,429 7,633 3% 222 224 1%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 274 275 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 4,562,414 5,214,677 14% 76,261 84,372 11%
Europe (741.4 M) 4,645,519 5,011,212 8%    
Ukraine (42 M) 145,612 166,244 14% 3,023 3,400 12%
Americas (1 B) 14,447,680 15,215,110 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,429 8,556 2% 215 220 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 3,437 4,374 27% 38 51 34%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 2,663 3,336 25% 40 58 45%
USA (382.2 M) 6,304,181 6,571,119 4% 189,709 195,638 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

In Namibia, the national state of emergency and lockdown has ended. In South Africa, international borders will open 1 October, though some restrictions will remain for certain countries that have not been named yet. Restrictions in Trinidad and Tobago have been extended for one more month.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Botswana*** 0 30
Jamaica 0 2
Namibia 2 33

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined
***Numbers have not been updated since last week

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 17 September. Updates include clinical recommendations for children experiencing COVID-19-related stress, as well as managing food insecurity and nutritional status for persons living with HIV and orphans and vulnerable children.

11 September 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 11 September 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 11 September 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 26,121,999 27,973,127 7% 864,618 905,426 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,066,906 1,101,618 3%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 1,724 2,126 23% 6 9 50%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 18,103 18,815 4% 117 119 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 34,493 35,460 3% 581 607 4%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,579 5,653 1% 175 176 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
4,117 4,764 16% 25 28 12%
Namibia (2.5 M) 7,844 9,108 16% 82 93 13%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
630,595 642,431 2% 14,389 15,168 5%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 6,638 7,429 12% 206 222 8%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 274 274 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 3,936,747 4,562,414 16% 68,472 76,261 11%
Europe (741.4 M) 4,343,514 4,645,519 7%    
Ukraine (42 M) 128,228 145,612 14% 2,710 3,023 12%
Americas (1 B) 13,725,652 14,447,680 5%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,258 8,429 2% 206 215 4%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 2,823 3,437 22% 27 38 41%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 1,941 2,663 37% 28 40 43%
USA (382.2 M) 6,050,444 6,304,181 4% 184,614 189,709 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

South Africa has seen a decrease in new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Hospitals are closing COVID-19 units, though they will reopen if there is a second surge. The state of emergency in Mozambique expired 6 September. Mozambique’s president has declared a “state of national public calamity” for an indefinite period, which has fewer restrictions than the initial emergency. As part of the new declaration, international borders will reopen, and flights will resume. Face masks are still mandatory and some limitations regarding number of persons gathering will be maintained.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Botswana 0 30
Namibia 1 33
Zimbabwe 15*** 220***

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined
***Numbers have not been updated since last week

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 9 September. Updates included clinical guidance for working with older clients struggling with COVID-19.

4 September 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 4 September 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 4 September 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 24,257,989 26,121,999 8% 827,246 864,618 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 1,026,101 1,066,906 4%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 1,633 1,724 6% 6 6 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 17,603 18,103 3% 114 117 3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 33,016 34,493 4% 564 581 3%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,474 5,579 2% 173 175 1%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
3,590 4,117 15% 21 25 19%
Namibia (2.5 M) 6,431 7,844 22% 59 82 39%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
615,701 630,595 2% 13,502 14,389 7%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 6,251 6,638 6% 179 206 15%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 273 274 0.4% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 3,387,500 3,936,747 16% 61,529 68,472 11%
Europe (741.4 M) 4,100,893 4,343,514 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 112,059 128,228 14% 2,403 2,710 13%
Americas (1 B) 12,869,643 13,725,652 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 8,151 8,258 1% 200 206 3%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 1,804 2,823 56% 19 27 42%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 1,429 1,941 36% 15 28 87%
USA (382.2 M) 5,765,325 6,050,444 5% 178,561 184,614 3%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

In Namibia, a nationwide curfew was implemented, the lockdown was extended in certain areas and lifted in others. PEPFAR distributed a geographic strategy in Namibia to guide service delivery in areas where community spread is imminent or currently occurring.

I-TECH Updates

The Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe has recognized Zim-TTECH’s outreach approach for comprehensive HIV services and encouraged all partners to implement similar models. Zim-TTECH’s outreach services include ART resupply, HIV testing services, ART initiation, tuberculosis preventative therapy, viral load testing, prophylaxis for HIV-exposed infants, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and condom distribution. The program activities were also featured on the US Embassy Harare Facebook page.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Botswana 0 30
Namibia 1 32
Zimbabwe 15 220

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 2 September. Updates included clinical guidance for HIV-positive clients who have been out of care for a year or more and for persons with advanced HIV disease.

28 August 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 28 August 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 28 August 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 22,492,312 24,257,989 8% 788,503 827,246 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 975,551 1,026,101 5%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 1,308 1,633 25% 3 6 100%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 17,232 17,603 2% 111 114 3%
Kenya (51.4 M) 31,015 33,016 6% 506 564 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 5,240 5,474 4% 164 173 5%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
3,045 3,590 18% 19 21 11%
Namibia (2.5 M) 4,665 6,431 38% 39 59 51%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
596,060 615,701 3% 12,423 13,502 9%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 5,643 6,251 11% 150 179 19%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 273 273 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 2,905,823 3,387,500 17% 54,849 61,529 12%
Europe (741.4 M) 3,874,604 4,100,893 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 98,537 112,059 14% 2,184 2,403 10%
Americas (1 B) 12,028,928 12,869,643 7%
Haiti (11.1 M) 7,997 8,151 2% 196 200 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 1,192 1,804 51% 14 19 36%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 730 1,429 96% 12 15 25%
USA (382.2 M) 5,477,305 5,765,325 5% 172,033 178,561 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Updates

The Kenya team received a notice of award for their follow on for the global health security agenda. The focus of their award has shifted primarily to COVID-19 infection prevention and control and complements the previous infection prevention and control through quality improvement efforts.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)**
Botswana 0 20
Malawi 0 0
Namibia 1 13
Zimbabwe 18 25

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 26 August. Further guidance related to infection prevention and control measures was given and the Global Health Supply Chain Program – Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM) risk report for HIV service delays was updated. Intervention suggestions were also described for country-level drug shortages.

21 August 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 21 August 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 21 August 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 20,687,815 22,492,312 9% 750,400 788,503 5%
Africa (1.2 B) 916,644 975,551 6%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 1,066 1,308 23% 2 3 50%
Côte d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 16,847 17,232 2% 105 111 6%
Kenya (51.4 M) 28,104 31,015 10% 456 506 11%
Malawi (18.1 M) 4,752 5,240 10% 152 164 8%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
2,559 3,045 19% 19 19 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 3,406 4,665 37% 22 39 77%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
568,919 596,060 5% 11,010 12,423 13%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 4,893 5,643 15% 122 150 23%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 273 273 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 2,461,190 2,905,823 18% 48,040 54,849 14%
Europe (741.4 M) 3,668,652 3,874,604 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 86,140 98,537 14% 1,992 2,184 10%
Americas (1 B) 11,109,443 12,028,928 8%
Haiti (11.1 M) 7,781 7,997 3% 192 196 2%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 1,065 1,192 12% 14 14 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 369 730 98% 8 12 50%
USA (382.2 M) 5,150,407 5,477,305 6% 164,826 172,033 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Due to increased cases, the government of Trinidad and Tobago will maintain or reinstate further restrictions if cases do not decline. In Jamaica, non-residents visiting from high-risk countries are required to obtain a COVID-19 PCR test prior to arrival and some areas within Jamaica that higher number of cases have extended quarantines. In South Africa, inter-provincial travel restrictions have been lifted, though international travel restrictions remain in place. Certain economic sectors such as accommodation, hospitality, restaurants, and others are permitted to open with approved protocols. In Zimbabwe, closures of 27 Harare city clinics have overwhelmed the Central Hospital due to an ongoing health care worker strike. Many staff who are in quarantine due to an exposure to a COVID-19 case are not able to return to work due to test kit shortages. A “COVID-19 free” certificate is required by many institutions, which can only be obtained through testing.

I-TECH Updates

Zim-TTECH is conducting community outreach HIV services to serve clients from 15 high volume sites to support continuity of services given clinic closures. CDC in Zimbabwe has allowed Zim-TTECH to pay for PCR COVID-19 tests for staff who need them to return to work and approved personal protective equipment procurement using COVID-19 funds.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)** Returned to Work***
Botswana 0 18 17
Malawi 0 0 6
Namibia 1 13 7
South Africa 0 0 5
Zimbabwe**** 6 63 22

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined
***Cumulative
****Zimbabwe numbers not updated this week

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 19 August. Further guidance related to clinic closures was given including how to prepare for disruption of services.

14 August 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 14 August 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 14 August 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 18,854,287 20,687,815 10% 708,639 750,400 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 848,053 916,644 8%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 804 1,066 33% 2 2 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 16,349 16,847 3% 103 105 2%
Kenya (51.4 M) 23,873 28,104 18% 391 456 17%
Malawi (18.1 M) 4,426 4,752 7% 136 152 12%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
2,079 2,559 23% 15 19 27%
Namibia (2.5 M) 2,504 3,406 34% 12 22 83%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
529,877 568,919 7% 9,298 11,010 18%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 4,339 4,893 13% 84 122 45%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 243 273 12% 0 0
India (1.4 B) 2,027,074 2,461,190 21% 41,585 48,040 16%
Europe (741.4 M) 3,477,225 3,668,652 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 76,808 86,140 12% 1,819 1,992 10%
Americas (1 B) 10,135,322 11,109,443 10%
Haiti (11.1 M) 7,544 7,781 3% 171 192 12%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 928 1,065 15% 12 14 17%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 207 369 78% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 4,781,612 5,150,407 8% 157,357 164,826 5%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Maputo, Mozambique, has been declared a community transmission spot, following the northern cities of Nampula and Pemba. Prevention measures have been put into law in Malawi effective 7 August; people must wear masks in public, and most social gatherings must be limited to 10 or less. In Botswana, the greater Gaborone lockdown has been lifted, and HIV services will resume. There will be a stepwise reopening of services (e.g., schools), but alcohol remains restricted.

I-TECH Updates

The Malawi team is working on an NOA response for $100K in central COVID funds.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)** Returned to Work***
Botswana 0 15 1
Malawi 0 0 6 (including 1 staff from subcontractor)
Namibia 0 0 7
South Africa 0 1 4
Zimbabwe**** 6 66 0

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined
***Cumulative
****Zimbabwe numbers not updated this week

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 12 August. Updates include a definition of Personal Protective Behavior, including physical separation from other people, respiratory hygiene, hand hygiene, face coverings, and avoiding large gatherings. The guidance also includes clarity on hazard pay policies for health care workers supported by PEPFAR funds. Immunizations as part of early infant diagnosis (EID) of HIV, or at facilities were EID is performed, are also classified as essential services. PEPFAR recommends scheduling EID and immunizations during the same health visit or in community settings if possible.

7 August 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 7 August 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 7 August 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 17,064,064 18,854,287 10% 668,073 708,639 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 754,390 848,053 12%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 804 804 0% 2 2 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 15,713 16,349 4% 98 103 5%
Kenya (51.4 M) 19,125 23,873 25% 311 391 26%
Malawi (18.1 M) 3,858 4,426 15% 107 136 27%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)   
1,748 2,079 19% 11 15 36%
Namibia (2.5 M) 1,986 2,504 28% 9 12 33%
South Africa (57.8 M) 471,123 529,877 12% 7,497 9,298 24%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 2,879 4,339 51% 41 84 105%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 234 243 4% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 1,638,870 2,027,074 24% 35,747 41,585 16%
Europe (741.4 M) 3,307,388 3,477,225 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 68,794 76,808 12% 1,673 1,819 9%
Americas (1 B) 9,152,173 10,135,322 11%
Haiti (11.1 M) 7,378 7,544 2% 159 171 8%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 856 928 8% 10 12 20%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 157 207 32% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 4,388,566 4,781,612 9% 150,054 157,357 5%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

In Malawi, only symptomatic cases are being tested due to inadequate laboratory test kits. All contacts are advised to quarantine for 10 days. Namibia has closed all schools except Grades 10, 11, 12 and reduced the number of persons allowed to assemble to 100 from 250. Mozambique declared another State of Emergency starting August 8 through September 6 and released stages for reopening sectors in the country. From the President of Mozambique:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a new reality on which no one has certainties. In all countries of the world, governments supported by scientists are facing doubts and testing solutions. All countries face the same winding path. They move forward one day and retreat the next day. This is not a lack of coherence or a lack of courage, it is humility, and this is respect for the truth. No one in this world can safely predict the future.”

I-TECH Updates

Malawi received a notice of award for COVID-19 supplemental funds from the Centers for Disease Control. District teams in Zimbabwe report low stocks of personal protective equipment. Zim-TTECH provided a supply of surgical masks to supported facilities that had run out.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

Country Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)** Returned to Work
Botswana 14
Malawi 1 1
Namibia 1 7 6
South Africa 1 1
Zimbabwe 6 66

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance

The PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 5 August. Guidance for reporting and Site Improvement through Monitoring System (SIMS) was detailed.

31 July 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 31 July 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 31 July 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 15,257,287 17,064,064 12% 628,240 668,073 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 642,387 754,390 17%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 622 804 29% 1 2 100%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 14,733 15,713 7% 93 98 5%
Kenya (51.4 M) 14,805 19,125 29% 260 311 20%
Malawi (18.1 M) 3,302 3,858 17% 76 107 41%
Mozambique
(29.5 M)
1,557 1,748 12% 11 11 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 1,402 1,986 42% 7 9 29%
South Africa (57.8 M) 394,948 471,123 19% 5,940 7,497 26%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 2,034 2,879 42% 26 41 58%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 202 234 16% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 1,287,945 1,638,870 27% 30,601 35,747 17%
Europe (741.4 M) 3,147,860 3,307,388 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 61,851 68,794 11% 1,551 1,673 8%
Americas (1 B) 8,121,700 9,152,173 13%
Haiti (11.1 M) 7,167 7,378 3% 154 159 3%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 816 856 5% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 141 157 11% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 3,938,094 4,388,566 11% 142,553 150,054 5%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Botswana is starting another lockdown on 30 July for two weeks or until situation improves. Only essential workers will be allowed to work. All other business and schools will be closed. South Africa closed schools again from 24 July–27 August. Universities in Kenya will be closed until 2021. Mozambique has ended its state of emergency and is planning for a phased reopening.

I-TECH Updates

Malawi submitted a three-year funding proposal to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support an expanded pandemic response.

I-TECH Staff COVID-19 Cases and Contacts

 

Country

Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)** Returned to Work
Botswana 1
Malawi 1 4
Namibia 6
South Africa 1 1
Zimbabwe 4 39

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 29 July. The updates include guidance for COVID-19 testing for exposed or symptomatic PEPFAR-supported health care workers; clarification about whether to report VMMC clients and staff with confirmed COVID-19 cases to PEPFAR, by site, as notifiable adverse events; and updates to the Global Health Supply Chain Program–Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM) risk report for HIV service delays.

24 July 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 24 July 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 24 July 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 13,575,158 15,257,287 12% 584,940 628,240 7%
Africa (1.2 B) 523,403 642,387 23%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 399 622 56% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 13,037 14,733 13% 87 93 7%
Kenya (51.4 M) 11,252 14,805 32% 209 260 24%
Malawi (18.1 M) 2,614 3,302 26% 43 76 77%
Mozambique

(29.5 M)

1,330 1,557 17% 9 11 22%
Namibia (2.5 M) 960 1,402 46% 2 7 250%
South Africa
(57.8 M)
311,049 394,948 27% 4,453 5,940 33%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 1,089 2,034 87% 20 26 30%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 166 202 22% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 1,003,382 1,287,945 28% 25,602^ 30,601 20%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,987,256 3,147,860 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 56,455 61,851 10% 1,445 1,551 7%
Americas (1 B) 7,154,840 8,121,700 14%
Haiti (11.1 M) 6,902 7,167 4% 145 154 6%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 763 816 7% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 133 141 6% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 3,472,659 3,938,094 13% 136,753 142,553 4%

* Tanzanian Government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
^ Adjusted from previous week
Source COVID-19 stats: https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates         

To view COVID-19 trends over time, check out the following websites:

  • The World Health Organization shows trends over time globally, plus confirmed cases and death rates over time for individual countries.
  • The University of Washington Novel Coronavirus Infection Map describes country-specific data related to aggregated confirmed, active confirmed, deaths, and recoveries over time.

I-TECH Updates

Country Cases (Confirmed and Probable)* Contacts (Exposed)** Returned to Work
Malawi 5
Namibia 3
South Africa 1 1
Zimbabwe 3 1

*Cases: Currently isolated
**Contacts: Currently quarantined

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 22 July. Updates include definitions for continuous medical masking and universal source control, as well as guidance for what to do when a health care worker at a clinic is COVID-19 positive.

17 July 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 17 July 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 17 July 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 12,064,828 13,575,158 13% 550,384 584,940 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 410,744 523,403 27%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 314 399 27% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 11,504 13,037 13% 78 87 12%
Kenya (51.4 M) 8,528 11,252 32% 169 209 24%
Malawi (18.1 M) 1,942 2,614 35% 25 43 72%
Mozambique (29.5M) 1,071 1,330 24% 8 9 13%
Namibia (2.5 M) 593 960 62% 0 2
South Africa (57.8 M) 224,665 311,049 38% 3,602 4,453 24%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0% 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 885 1,089 23% 9 20 122%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 141 166 18% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 793,802 1,003,382 26% 21,604 34,956 62%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,847,887 2,987,256 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 51,224 56,455 10% 1,327 1,445 9%
Americas (1 B) 6,264,626 7,154,840 14%
Haiti (11.1 M) 6,486 6,902 6% 123 145 18%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 751 763 2% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 133 133 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 3,038,325 3,472,659 14% 131,884 136,753 4%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

With a surge in cases across many countries, governments are starting to re-instate prevention measures that were previously being relaxed. South Africa has banned alcohol again and restricted movement during certain hours of the day unless deemed an essential worker. Provincial boundaries were also closed to those without a permit. In Zimbabwe, the lockdown was extended, and school openings are being deferred. In Kenya, curfew was extended for an additional 30 days.

I-TECH Updates

In Zimbabwe, the government conducted routine COVID-19 health worker surveillance at some facilities in Harare. As a result of the surveillance, one Zim-TTECH staff person tested COVID-19 positive, despite being asymptomatic and having no known COVID-19 exposure. The staff person is in isolation at home. At another facility, two other Zim-TTECH staff are probable cases and isolating at home. Finally, one staff person from a third facility is in quarantine due to close contact with a known COVID-19 case. All staff are being monitored regularly by phone.

In Malawi, an I-TECH staff person who attended a training tested COVID-19 positive and is isolating at home. COVID-19 safety procedures, including mandatory mask use, attestation at the door for COVID-19 symptoms, and physical distancing, were in place at the training. Other training participants are in quarantine and contact tracing is ongoing.

Country Isolating (Positive/ Probable Case) Quarantine (Exposed) Recovered
Malawi 4
South Africa 1 1
Zimbabwe 3 1

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 15 July. A link to providing online COVID-19 stakeholder feedback was provided along with information about the 58 submissions received by PEPFAR to date; guidance on performing hand hygiene with clients without running water was added; and the Global Health Supply Chain Program–Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM) risk report for HIV service delays was updated.

10 July 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 10 July 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 10 July 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 10,533,779 12,064,828 15% 512,842 550,384 7%
Africa (1.2 B) 318,432 410,744 29%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 227 314 38% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 9,499 11,504 21% 68 78 15%
Kenya (51.4 M) 6,673 8,528 28% 149 169 13%
Malawi (18.1 M) 1,342 1,942 45% 16 25 56%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 903 1,071 19% 6 8 33%
Namibia (2.5 M) 285 593 108% 0 0
South Africa (57.8 M) 159,333 224,665 41% 2,749 3,602 31%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 605 885 46% 7 9 29%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 141 141 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 604,641 793,802 31% 17,834 21,604 21%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,747,810 2,847,887 4%    
Ukraine (42 M) 45,888 51,224 12% 1,185 1,327 12%
Americas (1 B) 5,317,792 6,264,626 18%
Haiti (11.1 M) 5,975 6,486 9% 105 123 17%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 702 751 7% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 130 133 2% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 2,616,949 3,038,325 16% 127,133 131,884 4%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

South Africa and Malawi are experiencing shortages of PCR testing reagents. As a result, in South Africa testing is prioritized to for those who are high risk and/or symptomatic. Personal protective equipment shortages are also occurring in Malawi at the National HIV reference laboratory. Community transmission has been reported in Zimbabwe. Governments continue to lift COVID-19 restrictions including opening borders and resuming air travel in some countries.

I-TECH Updates

Staff who were tested COVID-19 positive are isolating at home and remain stable.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 8 July 2020. Basic information about COVID-19 was added, updates to HIV recency testing included, and guidance related to universal source control measures for infection prevention and control added.

2 July 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 2 July 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 2 July 2020. Due to the Friday holiday, data below reflect only six days, rather than the usual full week of data collected.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 9,454,051 10,533,779 11% 483,686 512,842 6%
Africa (1.2 B) 258,752 318,432 23%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 125 227 82% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 8,334 9,499 14% 60 68 13%
Kenya (51.4 M) 5,384 6,673 24% 132 149 13%
Malawi (18.1 M) 960 1,342 40% 12 16 33%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 788 903 15% 5 6 20%
Namibia (2.5 M) 102 285 179% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 118,375 159,333 35% 2,292 2,749 20%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 551 605 10% 6 7 17%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 130 141 8% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 490,401 604,641 23% 15,301 17,834 17%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,600,590 2,747,810 6%    
Ukraine (42 M) 40,008 45,888 15% 994 1,185 19%
Americas (1 B) 4,709,927 5,317,792 13%
Haiti (11.1 M) 5,429 5,975 10% 92 105 14%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 678 702 4% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 123 130 6% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 2,367,064 2,616,949 11% 121,645 127,133 5%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Updates
Protocols for Symptoms Screening of Staff and Visitors to I-TECH Offices and Management of COVID-19 Cases and Close Contacts in I-TECH Offices are forthcoming. I-TECH will review and answer questions during the next Monday meeting.

New USG Guidance this Week
PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on 1 July 2020. Supply chain for condoms guidance was updated.

26 June 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 26 June 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 26 June 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 8,366,417 9,454,051 13% 450,087 483,686 7%
Africa (1.2 B) 201,178 258,752 29%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 79 125 58% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 6,444 8,334 29% 49 60 22%
Kenya (51.4 M) 4,257 5,384 26% 117 132 13%
Malawi (18.1 M) 592 960 62% 8 12 50%
Mozambique (29.5M) 662 788 19% 4 5 25%
Namibia (2.5 M) 39 102 162% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 83,890 118,375 41% 1,737 2,292 32%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 463 551 19% 4 6 50%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 129 130 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 380,532 490,401 29% 12,573 15,301 22%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,471,792 2,600,590 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 34,063 40,008 17% 966 994 3%
Americas (1 B) 4,092,526 4,709,927 15%
Haiti (11.1 M) 4,688 5,429 16% 82 92 12%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 626 678 8% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 123 123 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 2,149,166 2,367,064 10% 117,472 121,645 4%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Updates

I-TECH has had four COVID-19 cases reported in staff: one in South Africa and three cases in Malawi. All COVID-19 positive staff are in self-isolation and staff close contacts (any staff person who was within two meters for 15 minutes or more) have been screened and are in quarantine.  I-TECH will be disseminating protocols that describe actions to take when there is a COVID-19 case or probable case among staff on Monday. Please remain vigilant about maintaining safety procedures for COVID-19 in the workplace.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on June 19. Guidance for resuming home visits by PEPFAR-supported cadres was updated; recommendations were outlined for adapting HIV services in the context of COVID-19 when they do not align with local policy; and a risk report was updated that described delays (in days) of HIV prevention services.

19 June 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 19 June 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 19 June 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 7,410,510 8,366,417 13% 418,294 450,087 8%
Africa (1.2 B) 155,762 201,178 29%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 48 79 65% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 4,404 6,444 46% 41 49 20%
Kenya (51.4 M) 3,215 4,257 32% 92 117 27%
Malawi (18.1 M) 481 592 23% 4 8 100%
Mozambique (29.5M) 489 662 35% 2 4 100%
Namibia (2.5 M) 31 39 26% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 58,568 83,890 43% 1,284 1,737 35%
Tanzania (56.3 M)* 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 332 463 39% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 126 129 2% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 297,535 380,532 28% 8,498 12,573 48%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,358,953 2,471,792 5%    
Ukraine (42 M) 29,753 34,063 14% 870 966 11%
Americas (1 B) 3,560,591 4,092,526 15%
Haiti (11.1 M) 3,796 4,688 23% 58 82 41%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 598 626 5% 10 10 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 117 123 5% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,988,646 2,149,166 8% 112,810 117,472 4%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Cases continue to rise in many countries. Jamaica is testing all tourist arrivals for COVID-19 and mandating face masks. In Trinidad and Tobago, government nationals can enter the country, though they are placed in a mandatory quarantine facility. In Zimbabwe, stockouts of personal protective equipment (PPE) are occurring. The Zimbabwe government has implemented a three-month salary increase and allowance for civil servants including those on pensions to account for the transitory economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In South Africa, some businesses and group activities have been reopened.

I-TECH

In Botswana, I-TECH resumed HIV testing services this week. In Kenya, I-TECH confirmed with CDC the COVID-19 response activities, which will start this week. I-TECH will support policy and guideline development and an implementation plan related to quarantine, self-isolation and contact tracing in Malawi. The Tanzania office is planning to reopen on July 1st.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance  was significantly updated on June 17. Guidance for resuming/reopening services was included; pediatric considerations for children living with or HIV/TB; infection prevention and control measures to reduce COVID-19 exposure in the healthcare setting was outlined; additional information on cloth masks from updated WHO guidance was included; and additional information on PPE and use was added.

12 June 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 12 June 2020

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 12 June 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 6,515,796 7,410,510 14% 387,298 418,294 8%
Africa (1.2 B) 121,104 155,762 29%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 40 48 20% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 3,262 4,404 35% 35 41 17%
Kenya (51.4 M) 2,340 3,215 37% 78 92 18%
Malawi (18.1 M) 393 481 22% 4 4 0%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 352 489 39% 2 2 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 25 31 24% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 40,792 58,568 44% 848 1,284 51%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 509* 0%* 21* 21* 0%*
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 222 332 50% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 125 126 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 226,770 297,535 31% 6,348 8,498 34%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,211,148 2,358,953 7%    
Ukraine (42M) 25,411 29,753 17% 748 870 16%
Americas (1 B) 3,084,517 3,560,591 15%
Haiti (11.1 M) 2,604 3,796 46% 50 58 16%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 590 598 1% 9 10 11%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 117 117 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,837,803 1,988,646 8% 106,876 112,810 6%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

As countries continue to ease COVID-19 prevention restrictions, the COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating, especially in lower- and middle-income countries and no longer concentrated only in urban settings. Latin America is widely acknowledged to be the new epicenter, with more than one-third of new COVID-19 cases occurring in this region in the last week,1 but Africa is also seeing a rapid increase in the number of cases.

I-TECH Updates

In Tanzania, the I-TECH COVID-19 proposal was approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I-TECH will mentor the Field Epidemiology Training Program graduates to conduct surveillance including case investigation and contact tracing.  Zimbabwe’s team received and distributed surgical face masks to supported sites.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on June 5 and June 10. Guidance for implementation of Virtual DREAMS content delivery was described, as well as updated guidance from WHO on face covering.

1. https://www.npr.org/2020/06/03/869053446/latin-america-becomes-a-new-epicenter-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic

5 June 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 5 June 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 5 June 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 5,701,337 6,515,796 14% 357,688 387,298 8%
Africa (1.2 B) 92,929 121,104 30%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 35 40 14% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 2,641 3,262 24% 32 35 9%
Kenya (51.4 M) 1,618 2,340 45% 58 78 34%
Malawi (18.1 M) 203 393 94% 4 4 0%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 233 352 51% 2 2 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 22 25 14% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 27,403 40,792 49% 577 848 47%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 509* 0% 21* 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 132 222 68% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 124 125 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 165,799 226,770 37% 4,706 6,348 35%
Europe (741.4 M) 2,102,574 2,211,148 5%    
Ukraine (42M) 22,811 25,411 11% 679 748 10%
Americas (1 B) 2,613,092 3,084,517 18%
Haiti (11.1 M) 1,320 2,604 97% 34 50 47%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 569 590 4% 9 9 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 116 117 1% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,675,258 1,837,803 10% 98,889 106,876 8%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29.
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Country Programs

In Jamaica, staff started returning to the office this week, observing protocols for workplace safety. In South Africa, the office was cleaned this week and Operations and Finance teams have started working in the office, with other teams returning in the coming week. The Cote d’Ivoire office has also reopened. Offices that are reopening are implementing strategies to ensure staff safety.

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated on June 3 this week. Guidance on the informal production and use of non-medical (or homemade) masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 was given and personal protective equipment for PEPFAR-supported health care providers was also clarified. The guidance also includes small updates related to pediatric drug supplies and referrals for housing support for key population community members.

UW MetaCenter Newsletter

The UW MetaCenter has a new daily newsletter that provides a summary of recent scientific literature related to COVID-19. See past issues of the newsletter here and subscribe to the newsletter here. (If you do not wish to receive general information from the Department of Global Health, or information about events and opportunities, you will need to un-check those boxes.)

29 May 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 29 May 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 29 May 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 4,993,470 5,701,337 14% 327,738 357,688 9%
Africa (1.2 B) 71,752 92,929 30%    
Botswana (2.3 M) 29 35 21% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 2,301 2,641 15% 29 32 10%
Kenya (51.4 M) 1,109 1,618 46% 50 58 16%
Malawi (18.1 M) 72 203 182% 3 4 33%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 162 233 44% 0 2
Namibia (2.5 M) 18 22 22% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 19,137 27,403 43% 369 577 56%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509 509* 0% 21 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 51 132 159% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)        
Cambodia (16.3 M) 123 124 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 118,447 165,799 40% 3,583 4,706 31%
Europe (741.4 M) 1,966,244 2,102,574 7%    
Ukraine (42 M) 20,148 22,811 13% 588 679 15%
Americas (1 B) 2,220,267 2,613,092 18%
Haiti (11.1 M) 663 1,320 99% 22 34 55%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 529 569 8% 9 9 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 116 116 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,525,186 1,675,258 10% 91,527 98,889 8%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29.
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

I-TECH Country Programs

As country offices start to reopen, each are expected to use strategies that increase staff safety and follow local labor laws. I-TECH Seattle has put together guidance for re-opening offices to further support staff safety and complement country-specific mandates (South Africa, for example). Guidance provides specific strategies, policies and procedures based on existing evidence to ensure staff safety.

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated twice this week. On May 22, PEPFAR provided guidance on resuming activities after lockdown restrictions ease, highlighted the importance of separating medication delivery from clinical care, and updated information on supply chain for antiretroviral therapy. On May 27, PEPFAR updated ANC attendance tracking and provided guidance on the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) by implementing partners for HIV clinical services. Guidance states:

“Essential PPE may be procured by implementing partners for HIV clinical services under the following conditions: 1) For the protection of, and use by, implementing partner staff; and 2) Locally or regionally provided that such items are not, and could not reasonably be expected to be, meant for the United States market, including but not limited to instances where such procurements are needed to ensure continuity of safe and effective implementation of foreign assistance programs.

“Note: HIV testing (or other direct HCW-patient interaction for HIV services) should not take place where routine adequate PPE is not available, (e.g., gloves or mask for phlebotomy). Further guidance will be forthcoming.”

22 May 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 22 May 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 22 May 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 4,307,287 4,993,470 16% 295,101 327,738 11%
Africa (1.2 B) 54,190 71,752 32%  
Botswana (2.3 M) 24 29 21% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 1,971 2,301 17% 24 29 21%
Kenya (51.4 M) 758 1,109 46% 42 50 19%
Malawi (18.1 M) 63 72 14% 3 3 0%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 115 162 41% 0 0 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 16 18 13% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 12,739 19,137 50% 238 369 55%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509* 509 0% 21* 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 37 51 38% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)      
Cambodia (16.3 M) 122 123 1% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 78,003 118,447 52% 2,549 3,583 41%
Europe (741.4 M) 1,801,668 1,966,244 9%  
Ukraine (42 M) 16,847 20,148 20% 456 588 29%
Americas (1 B) 1,864,468 2,220,267 19%
Haiti (11.1 M) 234 663 183% 18 22 22%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 509 529 4% 9 9 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 116 116 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,361,522 1,525,186 12% 82,119 91,527 11%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29.
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

Many governments have started lifting COVID-19 related restrictions using a phased approach. In Cote d’Ivoire, government offices will reopen May 26. In Jamaica, the work from home mandate will be lifted starting June 1 except for persons 65 years and older or any person with an underlying condition. In Trinidad and Tobago, manufacturing and construction sectors reopened this week. Ukraine started an “adaptive quarantine” allowing for certain sectors to open, including public transit, hotels, sports competitions without spectators, and parishes. For the next four weeks, Ukraine will continue to further lift restrictions. In Tanzania, the government lifted all restrictions and encouraged people to go to work.

I-TECH Country Programs

In Kenya, I-TECH presented during a webinar to the CDC and WHO Global Infection Prevention and Control network on Kenya IPC activities and COVID-19 facility readiness assessment using an electronic tool. There were more than 1,000 participants from multiple countries. In Cote d’Ivoire, staff started working at the office again this week. I-TECH headquarters will be sending out guidance and resources related to re-opening offices in the coming weeks.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated to provide guidance related to the ongoing shortage of LPV/r tablets and pellets.

PPE Survey

The topic of personal protective equipment (PPE) came up at a recent Town Hall hosted by the Office of Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) for civil society organizations. OGAC confirmed that PPE may not be procured with PEPFAR funds until White House guidance is released. Currently, this is being enforced by HRSA but not CDC.

OGAC also indicated that they had not heard that any programs are out of PPE. If your program is out of PPE or if you have general comments for OGAC, complete this online survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/V7RJW59

15 May 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 15 May 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 15 May 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Area (Population) Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global (7.6 B) 3,759,967 4,307,287 15% 259,474 295,101 14%
Africa (1.2 B) 37,717 54,190 44%  
Botswana (2.3 M) 23 24 4% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire (25.1 M) 1,571 1,971 25% 20 24 20%
Kenya (51.4 M) 607 758 25% 29 42 45%
Malawi (18.1 M) 43 63 47% 3 3 0%
Mozambique (29.5 M) 81 115 42% 0 0 0%
Namibia (2.5 M) 16 16 0% 0 0 0%
South Africa (57.8 M) 8,232 12,739 55% 161 238 48%
Tanzania (56.3 M) 509 509* 0% 21 21* 0%
Zimbabwe (14.4 M) 34 37 9% 4 4 0%
Asia (4.5 B)    
Cambodia (16.3 M) 122 122 0% 0 0 0%
India (1.4 B) 56,342 78,003 38% 1,886 2,549 35%
Europe (741.4 M) 1,654,345 1,801,668 9%  
Ukraine (42 M) 14,195 16,847 19% 361 456 26%
Americas (1 B) 1,586,129 1,864,468 18%
Haiti (11.1 M) 108 234 117% 12 18 50%
Jamaica (2.9 M) 478 509 6% 9 9 0%
Trinidad and Tobago (1.4 M) 116 116 0% 8 8 0%
USA (382.2 M) 1,215,571 1,361,522 12% 67,146 82,119 22%

* The Tanzanian government has not released COVID-19 data since 4/29.
Source COVID-19 stats: 
https://covid19.who.int/
Source population: World Bank

International Updates

The UNAIDS and the World Health Organization issued a joint news release on May 11 that describes potential consequences of COVID-19 disruption to HIV care. A modeling exercise measured the impact of a six-month disruption of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Over 500,000 extra AIDS-related deaths in sub-Saharan Africa, with a two-fold increase in mother-to-child transmission, were attributed to ART disruption, and impact was still observed after five years. Even shorter disruptions, for example three months, would significantly impact HIV deaths. The priority for all HIV programs should be to sustain and expand all vital health services and ensure continuous access to prevention, testing, and treatment services, especially ART.

I-TECH Country Programs

India hosted the first two webinars on COVID-19 for a network of medical colleges. The first session, “Disease Dynamics and the Science Behind the Lockdown,” was virtually attended by 796 people. The second, “Mental Health During the Lockdown,” was virtually attended by 550 people.

In Jamaica, a redirection of funds for food vouchers, transport stipends, and non-personal protective equipment supplies for HIV patients and HIV clinics due to COVID-19 hardship was approved. Malawi received a notice of award (NOA) for $250,000 from the CDC International Task Force to support the secondment of a new technical advisor to the Public Health Institute of Malawi for central coordination of COVID-19 response and to support the Emergency Operations Center. Zimbabwe received an NOA for $579,500 to support vaccine preparedness and disease prevention efforts.

In Nambia, Windhoek-based staff have started working at the office again. Guidance was given to staff for use of reusable masks and, for staff sharing offices, alternating times and days were scheduled to reduce number of staff in the office at any given time.

New USG Guidance

On 8 May, there was updated PEPFAR guidance issued, including information about the role of PEPFAR Coordination Offices in the larger USG COVID-19 response.

8 May 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 8 May 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 8 May 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global 3,175,207 3,759,967 18% 224,172 259,474 16%
Africa 26,663 37,717 41%  
Botswana 23 23 0% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire 1,275 1,571 23% 14 20 43%
Kenya 396 607 53% 17 29 71%
Malawi 37 43 16% 3 3 0%
Mozambique 76 81 7% 0 0 0%
Namibia 16 16 0% 0 0 0%
South Africa 5,647 8,232 46% 103 161 56%
Tanzania 480 509 6% 17 21 24%
Zimbabwe 32 34 6% 4 4 0%
SE Asia 57,088 86,294 51%  
Cambodia 122 122 0% 0 0 0%
India 35,043 56,342 61% 1,147 1,886 64%
Western Pacific 148,838 157,447 6%
Jamaica 396 478 21% 7 9 29%
Haiti 76 108 42% 7 12 71%
Trinidad and Tobago 116 116 0% 8 8 0%
Europe 1,461,404 1,654,345 13%  
Ukraine 10,861 14,195 31% 272 361 33%
Americas 1,291,917 1,586,129 23%
USA 1,035,353 1,215,571 17% 55,337 67,146 21%

Source:  https://covid19.who.int/

International Updates

In India, I-TECH will conduct COVID-19 related distance learning sessions for a network of medical colleges. Between 600 and 1,000 participants are expected to join per session. I-TECH Kenya will be conducting infection prevention and control trainings in two counties and will be testing the CDC facility readiness assessment tool. In Malawi, I-TECH is hiring an additional technical advisor to support the Public Health Institute. Two I-TECH staff in Mozambique contributed to the development of the Ministry of Health Pocket Guide to COVID-19 Prevention.I-TECH Country Programs

New USG Guidance

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated twice this week. On 1 May 2020, guidance was released with information about how to prepare for clinic closures; impact, and mitigation measures for PLHIV and orphans and vulnerable children food insecurity and nutritional status; and reporting and SIMS updates. On 6 May 2020, guidance was updated related to self-testing; and laboratory services including supply chain management, testing for viral load, early infant diagnosis, TB, and SARS-CoV-2 testing.

Tip of the Week

As countries move to reopen businesses, consider what steps need to be put into place to open I-TECH offices. The CDC has issued reopening guidance for cleaning and disinfecting businesses and other workplaces, including a cleaning and disinfectant decision tool. While the guidance is U.S.-focused, suggested strategies are relevant to international settings as well. For ongoing cleaning and disinfection suggestions once an office has been reopened, review the World Health Organization’s considerations for getting your workplace ready for COVID-19, which are applicable while there is still risk of COVID-19 exposure.

1 May 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 1 May 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 1 May 2020.)

Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with I-TECH Programs

CONFIRMED DECEASED
Last Week This Week % Change Last Week This Week % Change
Global 2,626,321 3,175,207 21% 181,938 224172 23%
Africa 18,234 26,663 46%
Botswana 22 23 5% 1 1 0%
Cote d’Ivoire 1,004 1,275 27% 14 14 0%
Kenya 320 96 -70% 14 17 21%
Malawi 33 37 12% 3 3 0%
Mozambique 41 76 85% 0 0
Namibia 16 16 0% 0 0
South Africa 3,953 5,647 43% 75 103 37%
Tanzania 285 480 68% 10 17 70%
Zimbabwe 28 32 14% 4 4 0%
SE Asia 57,088
Cambodia 122 122 0% 0 0
India 23,077 35,043 52% 718 1,147 60%
Western Pacific 139,782 148,838 6%
Jamaica 243 396 63% 6 7 17%
Haiti 62 76 23% 4 7 75%
Trinidad and Tobago 115 116 1% 8 8 0%
Europe 1,284,216 1,461,404 14%
Ukraine 7,647 10,861 42% 193 272 41%
Americas 1,291,917
USA 1,035,353 55,337

Source:  https://covid19.who.int/

National Updates

While most countries are in extended lockdowns, governments are making comprehensive plans for lifting quarantine measures in stages or steps. In Ukraine, the government has outlined a five-stage plan based on criteria. Ukraine’s stages are based on risk levels and indicators related to disease transmission, number of new cases, recovery and hospitalizations. In Namibia, the government has released guidance for lifting restrictions in four stages, ending June 30. Botswana, Cote d’Ivoire, and Kenya are all in planning processes, as well.

I-TECH Country Programs 

In Zimbabwe, Zim-TTECH was notified by CDC that they would receive $579,500 to support COVID-19 activities. Zim-TTECH will support vaccine preparedness and disease prevention for rapid scale up and implementation of a SARS-COV2 vaccine when available; and infection control and prevention efforts for triaging at 250 sites across five provinces. Zim-TTECH will work closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to ensure any identified gaps have targeted support to minimize COVID-19 spread in health facilities. In Tanzania, CDC redirected both carry-forward and Q3 activities ($83,000) to support training for case investigation and contact tracing teams, targeting Field Epidemiology and Training Program graduates and community health care workers.

24 April 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 24 April 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 24 April 2020.)

Epidemiological Update

Region/ Country Confirmed New Cases Deceased
Global 2,626,321 73,911 181,938
Africa 18,234    
Botswana 22 2 1
Cote d’Ivoire 1,004 52 14
Kenya 320 17 14
Malawi 33 10 3
Mozambique 41 2 0
Namibia 16 0 0
South Africa 3,953 318 75
Tanzania 285 30 10
Zimbabwe 28 0 4
Asia      
Cambodia 122 0 0
India 23,077 1,684 718
Western Pacific 139,782
Jamaica 243 10 6
Haiti 62 4 4
Trinidad and Tobago 115 1 8
Europe 1,284,216    
Ukraine 7,647 477 193

Source:  https://covid19.who.int/

I-TECH Country Programs 

Malawi will be awarded $250,000 to support COVID-19 related activities and Kenya will be awarded $250,000 to support strategic priority infection prevention and control activities for containment and prevention of COVID-19 cases at health care facilities.

This week the Zimbabwe team launched a tracker to monitor facility status, services, commodities, and personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collected using the Excel trackers helps Zim-TTECH monitor trends, plan programmatic need and respond to shortages at facilities.

Funder Requests

The CDC requested the Zimbabwe and Jamaica program offices complete a survey to quantify PEPFAR support for COVID-19 response.

New USG Guidance this Week

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated this week to include suggestions for tracing individuals who have been lost to follow-up, pediatric antiretroviral therapy, and information for faith and community-based organizations.

Monday Guest: Kate Starbird

Kate Starbird, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering at UW, will be joining us for our Monday morning COVID-19 update call. Starbird will facilitate a Q&A session on “Misinformation and Disinformation in Times of Crisis.” Learn more about her and her work here and here.

Tip of the Week

Be kind to yourself and others.
“I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.” – Nelson Mandela

17 April 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 17 April 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 17 April 2020.)

National Responses

In some countries, lockdowns and states of emergency have been extended this week. Country governments are trying to expand testing and proactively minimize transmission. Zimbabwe released a strategy to increase active screening for COVID-19. Jamaica has started mobile testing into certain regions and Kenya’s testing capacity has increased substantially. In South Africa, community transmission has been reported. The National Department of Health has deployed 10,000 community health workers (CHWs) to conduct household-based testing and screening and plans to add an additional 18,000 CHWs soon. Botswana will also start community testing this week.

The United States has now reported the largest number of COVID-19 deaths. Over 34,000 persons have died to date and 675,640 persons have tested positive. Most of the country is in a lockdown (shelter in place) and hotspots, especially New York City, account substantially for the total COVID-19 deaths to date. Access to COVID-19 testing and insufficient PPE are national challenges exacerbated by a fragmented health system where universal access to health care does not exist. Washington State, where the first COVID-19 hotspot was detected in the Seattle area, instituted shelter in place measures on March 23. These early and aggressive public health measures have been essential to interrupting transmission and ensuring that hospitals are not overwhelmed. Seattle’s health department released key tools that describe what will need to be in place before transitioning away from our current public health measures. In addition, states are working together to develop plans for lifting these measures in an iterative way to minimize rebound infections.

I-TECH Response

Infection prevention and control (IPC) capacity building and support has been identified as a need across our network. In Kenya, the Ministry of Health and WHO have requested technical assistance with building IPC capacity. I-TECH will receive $250,000 to assist with this scope, which builds on I-TECH Kenya’s robust IPC program. In India, CDC has started discussion about delivering an IPC course using a distance learning platform. In Malawi, a proposal was submitted to CDC for $250,000 from the CDC International Task Force funds. The funds would cover secondment of a new TA position to the Public Health Institute of Malawi for support of central coordination of the national COVID-19 response, and support to the national Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

Programmatic changes and advocacy in country programs are not possible without the strong and resilient leadership of our country teams. Your leadership is evident now more than ever, as country office leadership negotiates redirection of funds, navigates donor relations due to programmatic disruptions, and leverages I-TECH’s technical teams to effectively support national COVID-19 response all while still maintaining other programming! Thank you to our country team leadership, in-country and at HQ, for effectively supporting our teams remotely and navigating new challenges in our country programming!

USG Guidance to Date

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated twice since last week. The first update (10 April) includes guidance on non-medical (or homemade) masks, HIV recency testing, age considerations for voluntary medical male circumcision, and orphans and vulnerable children enrollment. The second update includes information about supply chain management, including expected delays of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and non-ART drugs.

10 April 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 10 April 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 10 April 2020.)

National Responses

Across our network, India and South Africa have the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases (6,412 and 1,934 respectively) outside of the United States.1 Most I-TECH countries have implemented a lockdown for varying degrees of time; some governments have imposed more stringent restrictions. For example, in Ukraine, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to leave home; only two persons are allowed out of home at a time; and anyone over the age of 60 years must stay home. In several countries, identification is required if you leave your home or a note from your employer that deems you “essential staff.”  Kenya, Mozambique, Cote d’Ivoire, and Trinidad and Tobago have mandated face mask use in public spaces. Some new government mandates being released are contributing to social unrest. In Kenya, the government has given families 24 hours to bury any person that has died from COVID-19 related complications.

Misinformation continues to be a problem in many countries. In Haiti, some people do not believe COVID-19 is real and recently protested the arrest of a journalist writing “false” stories to support that belief. In Cote d’Ivoire, one of the COVID-19 testing sites under development was destroyed by the community due to misconception that it was a treatment site, bringing disease to their neighborhood.

While each country is trying to maintain HIV services, some prevention activities have been postponed. In Zimbabwe, voluntary male medical circumcision is suspended; in Malawi, recency testing is suspended and homebased HTS stopped. In Botswana, HIV testing services have been paused.

Namibia released standard operating procedures for management of confirmed COVID-19 cases. Kenya has updated pediatric guidelines, infection prevention and control for COVID-19 in homes and residential communities and released a position statement on use of hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19. Personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages have been reported in Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, and test kit shortages have been reported in Cote d’Ivoire.

I-TECH Response 

CDC has requested a COVID-19 specific proposal in Kenya for infection prevention and control support, and in Malawi a concept note for activities to strengthen surveillance, laboratory capacity, and national coordination of the Public Health Reference Laboratory. In Mozambique, staff are discussing two proposals with HRSA for COVID-19 related activities. In Botswana and Tanzania, I-TECH is waiting for approval from CDC to re-direct some programmatic funds to support COVID-19 activities. Namibia is waiting for concurrence from CDC regarding a PPE supply order submitted. A request for reprogramming has been approved by CDC in Zimbabwe.

Across the I-TECH network our staff continue to provide care for HIV clients in health facilities, and some have been seconded to ministries to provide high-level critical support to government responses. We recognize the challenges and hardships that our colleagues experience both professionally and personally. As a society and more specifically, as an organization, we are indebted to you. Thank you for your hard work and dedication supporting our communities through this trying and unprecedented time.

USG Guidance to Date

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated twice this week. The update includes guidance for HIV testing and prevention including Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), multi-month dispensing, gender-based violence and children protection guidance including DREAMS, maternal an and child health service delivery, and women’s health.

Reminder

It is important to be able to minimize our food shopping trips. If any of our staff do not have resources to stock their homes with enough food and other necessities to last one week at time, please contact Shelly Tonge-Seymour (beano@uw.edu).

Tip of the Week

If you have any questions about effectively working from home, see UWHR’s Tips for Teleworking and this resource from Harvard Business Review’s Ascend. For ideas on how to work best within remote teams, see this webinar from UW’s Professional and Organizational Development (POD) team.

3 April 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 3 April 2020

Weekly Roundup

(Note: These updates are as of 12 p.m. PT, 3 April 2020.)

National Responses

COVID-19 cases are now present in all I-TECH countries. Malawi and Botswana both reported their first COVID-19 cases this week, though testing availability has been a challenge. Across the network, access to testing varies and remains very low in some places. For example, only 309 people have been tested in Zimbabwe to date. Efforts to increase access to testing are under way. South Africa has started door-to-door COVID-19 testing and all HIV testing sites have added COVID-19 testing. The Caribbean Regional Public Health Agency has made efforts to increase testing in Trinidad and Tobago, though test kit availability and access to certified testing staff remains problematic. Malawi received 20,000 test kits this week.

Access to personal protective equipment (PPE) is an ongoing challenge. Ministries of Health (MOH) are making efforts to procure PPE, though access is limited in some countries. Some countries are experiencing price gouging and inequitable distribution of supplies. In India, ART staff are getting PPE supplies from the government, but differentiated service delivery (DSD) sites are not. In Botswana, I-TECH is working with local tailors to custom make PPE. In Kenya, custom made PPE is not allowed in clinical situations, but the government is manufacturing PPE and masks locally for health care workers. Review the World Health Organization’s most recent updates to PPE guidelines. All I-TECH offices should continue efforts to procure PPE for staff, using sole source procurement if necessary, in order to expedite the process.

All I-TECH country governments have implemented a curfew and/or a country-wide lockdown. Political unrest and violence have been reported in South Africa, Kenya, and India. Migration continues to occur where borders allow, with citizens attempting to return home. In Mozambique, 24,000 migrant workers returned from South Africa this week before the border closed. Efforts are being made to screen and quarantine returning citizens in places where borders are still porous.

Access to HIV services remains a priority. In India, ART dispensaries are opening near patients for convenience and access. Zimbabwe and Namibia have implemented more multi-month dispensing (MMD); stock determines the length of MMD. For example, in Namibia the goal was for six-month ART, but due to current supply, only four months can be accommodated.

I-TECH Response             

Some MOHs have made specific requests of I-TECH teams. For example, in Malawi, MOH Public Health Reference Lab has requested I-TECH support in the development of standard operating procedures for COVID-19 testing. In Kenya, the I-TECH team is integrating droplet precaution and COVID-19 specific questions to the Infection Control Assessment Tool for facilities. Clinical staff in Namibia continue to provide HIV care. In Jamaica, the MOH invited I-TECH to join the COVID-19 & HIV response team. Clinic-based staff are also using electronic communication methods such as WhatsApp and a warm line to provide mentoring, clinical consultation, and support to hospitals.

Operations and finance teams have been instrumental across the I-TECH network to set up necessary operating procedures for staff to work remotely. This includes navigating internet support and airtime for staff, ensuring access to Quickbooks to allow for remote payment processing, and troubleshooting procurement of PPE to ensure staff are protected. Without the continued critical efforts of I-TECH’s operations and finance teams, staff would not be able to effectively work from home. Some creative approaches have emerged to mitigating work-from-home challenges: 1) Cote d’Ivoire is using Adobe Pro to e-sign necessary documents to ensure programmatic activity continues; 2) In Zimbabwe, a staff person parks a project vehicle at home so that the driver can transport staff working in the office, minimizing risk of exposure from public transport; and 3) South Africa is orienting new hires remotely.

USG Guidance to Date

PEPFAR technical guidance was updated this week. The update includes pediatric multi-month dispensing guidance, TB/HIV and COVID-19 clinical care and treatment guidance, and human resources for health recommendations for maintaining essential HIV services, including training.

27 March 2020

I-TECH COVID-19 Weekly Digest, 27 March 2020

Weekly Round-Up

(Note: These updates are as of 11 a.m. PT, 27 March 2020.)

National Responses

COVID-19 has been detected in all I-TECH countries except Botswana and Malawi. COVID-19-associated deaths have been reported in India, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Jamaica and Ukraine.[1]  All governments have implemented some combination of measures to contain the disease including reducing the size of or eliminating gatherings, closing borders, establishing travel restrictions, encouraging hygiene practices, implementing social distancing measures and/or curfews, and closure of schools and non-essential businesses. India, South Africa, Ukraine, parts of Namibia, and Zimbabwe have implemented a national lockdown for a minimum of 21 days, with additional countries anticipating similar measures in the next week.

Governments, with USG support, have postponed what they deem as non-essential or elective procedures and have shifted to remote meetings and deploying distance-learning trainings to eliminate face-to-face contact. ART services are deemed essential and will remain open. Emphasis has been given towards ensuring that adequate supplies and medications are available for HIV programs and aggressive contact tracing of confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Challenges have been reported across our network. Zimbabwe’s situation is particularly acute: nurses and doctors are on strike due to concerns related to lack of personal protective equipment; inflation rates are at 400%; food insecurity, and limited access to life-saving supportive care are compromising the health system. India is experiencing political unrest and food insecurity attributed to the national lock down. Cote d’Ivoire’s supply chain has been disrupted due to travel restrictions – no one can leave or enter Abidjan, the capital. Additional countries have reported fear that political unrest will likely occur in the coming weeks as well.

I-TECH’s Response

I-TECH has implemented policies to safeguard staff and their families from exposure to COVID-19.  All offices established policies (Namibia example) to ensure staff can work from home. Some offices have implemented modified office hours to accommodate operational and fiscal responsibilities such as ensuring essential approvals and processing payments. For example, in Malawi, the office is open from 10 am–2 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is staffed by a rotating person from the senior management team to ensure payments are processed. All field-based activities have been postponed, with guidance from project officers.

I-TECH has contributed to national responses in a variety of ways. Tanzania and Malawi have seconded staff to support the national COVID-19 response. In Malawi, an I-TECH seconded staff is now the COVID-19 response coordinator for MOH Public Health Institute of Malawi. I-TECH Malawi has also deployed an additional technical advisor to support the National HIV reference laboratory to support COVID-19 testing readiness and confirmatory DNA PCR testing quality assurance. In Tanzania, I-TECH seconded a technical advisor to support the national surveillance response. In Mozambique, MOH converted an existing health center to a COVID-19 service delivery facility. I-TECH is providing follow up for the 10,000 ART patients transferred from the converted health facility. In Zimbabwe, I-TECH is working with CDC to deploy staff, tents and vehicles to support ART services and the COVID response, They are also developing an online COVID-19 sensitization training. For I-TECH staff working in health facilities, I-TECH has or is working to procure PPE as recommended by the World Health Organization for staff and is trying to ensure that adequate HIV commodities, supplies and laboratory reagents are dispatched to facilities. In Namibia and India, ECHO sessions have been held by MOHSS to discuss COVID-19 response and in Tanzania, healthcare worker sensitization has been held in partnership with MOH.

USG Guidance to Date  

All changes to I-TECH programming must be pre-approved with CDC or HRSA project officers and activity managers in advance. Any disruptions to programming as a result of COVID-19 should be documented and shared with project officers.

Procurement of PPE for I-TECH staff is allowable without prior approval. Procured PPE must be reasonable and based on number of staff needing it, frequency of use, and projected amount of time (such as a 6 week supply). OGAC announced on 23 March 2020 that PEPFAR resources could not be used to purchase PPE, ventilators or COVID-19 test kits for MOH counterparts for the larger country response.

The Quarter 2 reporting deadline has been extended to June 5 in two countries, with detailed guidance forthcoming. Follow up with your project officer to determine if deadlines have changed for your program. 

1. Source: https://hgis.uw.edu/virus/

Free and Low-Cost Classes for Professional Development

Because many working from home may be looking for ways to remain engaged, we have compiled a list of online learning resources:

TheLadders.com – Guide to 7 elite universities offering free classes.

USAID Learning Lab – USAID’s platform for generating and sharing information, tools, and resources on how development practitioners can work together to integrate learning throughout the USAID Program Cycle.

Coursera – Online courses (with or without a certificate) taught by top instructors from the world’s best universities and education institutions. Varying in length and cost, they tend to last 4-6 weeks and are priced at about $29-$99 USD.  Free course options are available.

edX – Similar to Coursera, edX provides free to low-cost online learning from more than 130 global partners including world’s leading universities, nonprofits and institutions.

LinkedIn – LinkedIn Learning offers over 10,000 online training programs. A free one-month trial is available, then memberships are $20/month.