On the 3rd of March 2020, ten fourth year Occupational Therapy students presented a health awareness workshop at Matimba, Mamelodi, which is a centre for orphaned and vulnerable children in Mamelodi. The health awareness workshop aimed to educate the children about preventing the spread of common diseases such as colds and flu by teaching the children the importance of washing their hands. With the world focussing on limiting the spread of the COVID-19 virus, this serves as a timeous prevention programme in the community of Mamelodi. 

The workshop started by splitting the group into two; one of the groups was provided with glitter on their hands. It was explained to the children that the glitter symbolised germs. The children were then encouraged to run around and play a game of touchers and give each other high fives. After this, they noticed how the glitter had spread to the entire group. The intention was to symbolise how quickly and easily germs spread. 

The children were then taught how to wash their hands properly. First, it was demonstrated to them that just washing their hands with water is not enough to remove the “glitter germs” and thus they always have to use soap. Secondly, it was demonstrated that you need to wash your hands on top, below as well as in between your fingers. All the children were then given the opportunity to wash their hands using the demonstrated method. 

The workshop was ended off by teaching the children a handwashing song. They were able to sing and dance along, bringing in fun and enjoyment. 

It is highly recommended for those working in fieldwork and practical placements, to consider such initiatives and other similar prevention strategies for children to limit the spread of COVID-19 as well as any other common diseases.