“Collision of three pandemics”

The impact of tuberculosis (TB), HIV and Covid-19 should not be understated. Collectively, millions of people have died from these diseases, with some groups being impacted disproportionately. Marginalised communities, in countries with weakened health systems, are more likely to be infected and die from these diseases. This is due, in part, to a lack of knowledge about the specific experiences of these communities and how best to protect them. People are dying unnecessarily – at Health Poverty Action, we want to support health workers at every stage working to prevent this injustice.

What is the research?

We’re working alongside the University of Namibia, Victus Global Botswana Organisation, and Forschungszentrum Borstel Leibniz Lungenzentrum (Research Centre Borstel, Leibniz Lung Centre) as they conduct research about the three diseases in Botswana and Namibia. Together, we want to learn about the impact of Covid-19 in communities that have limited resources, high levels of poverty and high rates of TB and HIV.

Beginning with exploring the nature of transmission, the study will then go on to evaluate how the diseases present and how people are diagnosed. The project will improve our understanding of Covid-19 in the context of TB and HIV, in turn producing vital information on how to provide care and how to design essential medicine. We shall not only produce data that will guide national responses for both countries’ governments, but we will also strengthen the capacity of laboratories and research. By developing peoples’ skills and knowledge around diagnosing and testing, we shall increase the scientific and research capacity of both countries.

We see health differently

Health Poverty Action has worked with health workers, activists, and community leaders in Namibia for years. Our focus is, and always will be, on securing health essentials and strengthening healthcare systems for the most marginalised communities. To stop health being denied.

We’re excited to work alongside leading research institutions, facilitating this ground-breaking research and exploring practical ways to apply the findings. Crucially, we are working on the frontlines to ensure that people will benefit from this research.