Experiences of vulnerability of people with disabilities during COVID-19 in South Africa

People with disabilities are often left behind in emergencies, and this is a risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. With approximately 3.8 million people living with disabilities in South Africa, it is not clear how they were considered during the initial and ongoing stages of strict lockdown. Through an online administered survey study, we explored the experiences of vulnerability among and the impact of COVID-19 on people with disabilities in South Africa. One hundred people completed the survey with closed and open-ended questions to document their experiences related to the first and second lockdowns in South Africa. Vital disability-specific health services were not regarded as ‘essential services’, thus placing people with disabilities at heightened risk. These included the State delivery of medication, as well as services related to sign language, assistive devices and technology, rehabilitation, and therapeutic and developmental interventions. Inadequate disability-specific information on COVID-19 left many people with disabilities and their caregivers with limited information on how to protect themselves. As a result, they experienced heightened fears, anxiety, and worry about contracting the virus, contributing to poor mental health. This growing mental health crisis is likely to burden the already inadequate health system and mental health support structures. Emerging lessons reveal that the right to health of people with disabilities should be protected during the COVID-19 pandemic and similar emergencies. Additional efforts are needed to ensure that pandemic responses are disability-inclusive from the planning stage.