Toward the end of 2019, TIPTOP countries expanded their C-IPTp implementation to new districts, allowing us to reach more pregnant women with IPTp-SP.  While this journey began smoothly, COVID-19 hit each of our countries and the world with tremendous force. The pandemic immediately reshaped how we could and would support pregnant women.  Adapting to new norms - social distancing, wearing masks, and infection prevention, became the new normal.  However, one thing remained unchanged: continuity of IPTp at facility and community levels.  TIPTOP’s midline research findings show remarkable improvements in IPTp3 uptake in 3 of the 4 TIPTOP countries from baseline studies.  As a learning project, each of these countries provides valuable insight to better understanding the value of community IPTp in varied settings to help increase IPTp3 uptake. With these reflections, I am very optimistic about 2021 and beyond.

How to have a healthy baby during COVID:
A TIPTOP Story from Nigeria
Step 1: Ensure regular doses of SP through masked CHW or at the health facility
Step 2: Provide ANC nurses with personal protection equipment for safety
Steps 3 & 4: Make regular, safe visits to health facility for comprehensive ANC care
Step 4: Give birth to a healthy baby boy or girl!