Abrusim COVID-19

Burnet Institute, in partnership with the East New Britain Public Health Authority has developed the ‘Abrusim COVID-19’ project, which, in the local language of Tok Pisin, means to ‘avoid’ or ‘prevent’ COVID-19.

This is a collaborative ongoing project, working with healthcare professionals, technical experts, community and government to strengthen and support the province’s response and preparedness for COVID-19.

Thanks to the support of the June Canavan Foundation, the project has created COVID-19 information and communication tools for community leaders to use and refer to when talking about COVID-19.

The Burnet team in East New Britain has also been distributing posters and flyers in English and in Tok Pisin, speaking to locals and travellers from nearby islands to promote the ‘Abrusim COVID-19’ message.

Dr Johanna English, from the Board of the June Canavan Foundation, has had a family connection with PNG for close to 40 years.

“When I read the Abrusim proposal, my first reaction was this was a great opportunity to grow sustainable change, especially in two of the June Canavan Foundation focus areas: health and education,” Dr English said.

“The impacts of COVID-19 are so widespread. PNG is one of our closest neighbours and we must do much more to help – with access to good health and education opportunities the country can work to reach its full potential.”

Burnet has long had a strong connection with PNG and is committed to supporting PNG communities and government in their response to COVID-19.

With thanks to the June Canavan Foundation. Successful applications to Trusts and Foundations are a major source of income for Burnet’s research and public health programs.