Accession Number:

AD1105917

Title:

PEPFAR's response to the convergence of the HIV and COVID-19 pandemics in Sub-Saharan Africa

Descriptive Note:

Journal Article - Open Access

Corporate Author:

United States Agency for International Development Washington United States

Report Date:

2020-07-12

Pagination or Media Count:

5.0

Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic reached the African continent in less than three months from when the first caseswere reported from mainland China. As COVID-19 preparedness and response plans were rapidly instituted across sub-Saharan Africa, many governments and donor organizations braced themselves for the unknown impact the COVID-19 pandemicwould have in under-resourced settings with high burdens of PLHIV. The potential negative impact of COVID-19 inthese countries is uncertain, but is estimated to contribute both directly and indirectly to the morbidity and mortality ofPLHIV, requiring countries to leverage existing HIV care systems to propel COVID-19 responses, while safeguarding PLHIVand HIV programme gains. In anticipation of COVID-19-related disruptions, PEPFAR promptly established guidance to rapidlyadapt HIV programmes to maintain essential HIV services while protecting recipients of care and staff from COVID-19. Thiscommentary reviews PEPFARs COVID-19 technical guidance and provides country-specific examples of programme adaptionsin sub-Saharan Africa.

Subject Categories:

  • Medicine and Medical Research

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE