Popular health surveillance: an experience during the COVID-19 pandemic in potiguara territories in Paraíba

Abstract

Objective: to report the experience of popular health surveillance in the Potiguara Indigenous Villages in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Method: exploratory descriptive research using semi-structured individual interviews and field diary as research instruments. Results and Discussion: One of the strategies adopted to prevent Covid-19 in the Potiguara Indigenous Villages in the state of Paraíba was the sanitary barriers, from the popular organization that configured a successful experience of popular health surveillance. The barriers controlled the movement of people in indigenous territory in order to restrict the entry and exit of indigenous and non-indigenous people in order to ensure prevention and health promotion. Conclusion: The Potiguara indigenous people were protagonists and promoted ways to protect life and their territory. Through the experience in popular health surveillance, it was reflected on the hegemonic models of current health surveillance and on the procedures that a successful practice of surveillance can contribute to a sense of community, awareness of the possible territory and improvement of health actions.