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

Nyashanu, M ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9231-0393, Chireshe, R, Mushawa, F and Ekpenyong, MS, 2021. Exploring the challenges of women taking anti-retroviral treatment during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in peri-urban Harare, Zimbabwe. International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. ISSN 0020-7292

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Abstract

Background: COVID-19 is a threat to both the welfare of the wider population and those who are living with chronic conditions like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). People living with HIV need a robust supporting environment and a functioning health system. In response to COVID-19 all services were halted, and people were restricted indoors in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The restriction paused challenges to many vulnerable people living with chronic conditions. This study was set to explore the challenges of women taking anti-retroviral treatment during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in a peri-urban area.

Methodology: This research employed an exploratory qualitative study (EQS) approach. Semi-structured questions were devised and used to elicit data on the on the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on women accessing HIV treatment. Twenty (20) women were interviewed through contacts from community and faith organisations in peri-urban Harare. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and entered into NVivo for organisation to make analysis easy. The data were thematically analysed underpinned by the for phases of data analysis in the Silences Framework.

Results: The study found out that transport problems, confusing COVID-19 restrictions, abuse by police and soldiers at roadblocks, shortage of medication, lack of health check-up routines, involuntary ARVs default and shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) affected HIV positive women accessing anti-retroviral treatment during COVID-19 lockdown.

Conclusion: The study concluded that pandemic preparedness is important in keeping adequate supply of ARV treatment and responding to the needs of individuals on HIV treatment.

Item Type:	Journal article
Publication Title:	International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Creators:	Nyashanu, M., Chireshe, R., Mushawa, F. and Ekpenyong, M.S.
Publisher:	Wiley
Date:	29 May 2021
ISSN:	0020-7292
Identifiers:	Number Type 10.1002/ijgo.13771 DOI 1445605 Other
Divisions:	Schools > School of Social Sciences
Record created by:	Laura Ward
Date Added:	14 Jun 2021 13:26
Last Modified:	29 May 2022 03:00
URI:	https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/43056

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