Eliminating inequalities in the WASH response to COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, inequalities which already exist and are deeply ingrained in some societies are exacerbated even further, particularly when it comes to access to water and sanitation. Good hygiene practices, such as handwashing, are key to preventing the spread of COVID-19. However, handwashing is only possible when water and soap are easily accessible. And while many utilities and governments are ensuring that access to water is continuous and cost barriers to services are removed or deferred, questions about who benefits, sustainability and what happens after the threat of the pandemic has passed, loom overhead. Public health messaging and calls to stay inside are hard to follow for people who have little or no access to WASH facilities; those who rely on daily wages to survive; those living in densely populated informal settlements or refugee camps; and street dwellers.