The crisis of lack of beds and oxygen in Manaus led the residents of Parque das Tribos, the first indigenous neighborhood in the capital of Amazonas, to mount a space for the treatment of indigenous people infected with the novel coronavirus.
Named Uapi (Indigenous Support Unit), the initiative is led by nursing assistant Vanda Ortega, who was the first to be vaccinated against Covid-19 in Amazonas. More than 50 indigenous people have passed through the space, opened three weeks ago.
Uapi works as a campaign infirmary adapted to indigenous culture and customs. In place of stretchers, patients use hammocks. The intention, according to Vanda, who is indigenous to the Witoto ethnic group, is to create a more welcoming environment.
The treatment also respects traditional indigenous medicine. In addition to drugs that act against the effects of Covid-19, the use of teas, herbs and leaves is widespread.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon