Facts on COVIDDespite some reports that Children and young people may be less likely to get the corona-virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) than older adults, there has been substantial indirect adverse effects of the disease on young people's physical and mental health, according to an analysis in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). http://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.201008
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These are difficult times and as an organization, we are deeply worried for our young people. Youth are already a very marginalized and isolated group and now that has intensified greatly during this pandemic. But this too shall pass...
Domestic ViolenceForced isolation and economic uncertainty has lead to increases in family violence, contributing to mental and physical trauma. Families living in inadequate or crowded housing may experience heightened stress or conflict, which can affect the mental and physical health of children. According to UN WOMEN a total of about 243 million women and girls aged 15-49 has experienced sexual and or physical violence by their intimate partners during this crisis period; https://interactive.unwomen.org/multimedia/explainer/covid19/en/index.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpMrQzJyT6wIVyZrVCh19fgHXEAAYASAAEgILm_D_BwE
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Economic Crisis...Refugees, some Indigenous communities and low-income families living with financial strain and food insecurity are particularly vulnerable. School cancellations heighten food insecurity for children who depend on meal programs and increase vulnerability with the loss of school as a safe place. Young people, mostly informal, workers and entrepreneurs are facing a triple shock due to the pandemic. Youth are becoming more vulnerable at the risk of starvation, hunger, insecurity, lack of livelihood opportunities, lack of access to farm lands and delaying their transition into the labor market.
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Opportunities..Every crisis comes with its own opportunities and we must as young people be positioned to take advantage of it. While there is a danger that the current crisis will result in an entrenchment of inequalities and the intensified persecution of minorities, the social solidarity and sense of common purpose, the sacrifice of front-line workers, we have seen the opportunity to resist the desire to go back to business as usual and to build instead fairer, more equal and greener societies. A world characterized by greater international cooperation, renewed democratic structures, sustainable economies and education as well as recognizing that people, not profit, must be at the heart of every policy.
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What to do..Stay Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. Most countries around the world have seen cases of COVID-19 and many are experiencing outbreaks. Authorities in China and some other countries have succeeded in slowing their outbreaks. However, the situation is unpredictable so check regularly for the latest news. Protect yourself and others from getting sick: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
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