Exploring the challenges of women taking antiretroviral treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in peri-urban Harare, Zimbabwe

Nyashanu, M, Chireshe, R, Mushawa, F and Ekpenyong, MS (2021) Exploring the challenges of women taking antiretroviral treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in peri-urban Harare, Zimbabwe. International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 154 (2). pp. 220-226. ISSN 0020-6695

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Abstract

Objective: To explore the challenges of women taking antiretroviral treatment (ART) during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in a peri-urban area. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study approach was used. Semi-structured questions were devised and used to elicit data on the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on women accessing treatment for HIV. Twenty women were interviewed through contacts from community and faith organizations in peri-urban Harare. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and entered into NVivo to make analysis easy. The data were thematically analyzed, underpinned by the four phases of data analysis in the Silences Framework. Results: The study discovered that transport problems, confusing COVID-19 restrictions, abuse by police and soldiers at roadblocks, a shortage of medication, lack of health check-up routines, involuntary default of ART, and a shortage of personal protective equipment affected HIV-positive women accessing ART during the COVID-19 lockdown. Conclusion: People living with HIV need a robust supporting environment and a functioning health system. In response to COVID-19 all services were halted to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Pandemic preparedness is important in keeping an adequate supply of ART and responding to the needs of individuals on HIV treatment.