Giving access to COVID-19 vaccines and HIV antiretroviral therapy to vulnerable populations 

The societal impact of COVID-19 has been disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, creating more social inequity. UNAIDS report that there were 3.5 million more HIV infections and 820 000 more AIDS-related deaths than if the world had achieved the 2020 targets.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously impacted the AIDS response and could disrupt it more. Reports indicate that a six-month complete disruption in HIV treatment could cause more than 500 000 additional deaths only in sub-Saharan Africa in one year. Even a 20% disruption could cause an additional 110 000 deaths.

 HIV positive communities in Sri Lanka is largely affected by cultural stigma and discrimination and COVID-19 risks blowing HIV progress way off course due to political manipulation of vaccine distribution in the country. We are currently working with these communities and government and non-governmental organizations to give them access to COVID-19 vaccines and continue antiretroviral therapy (ART). 

 No one safe until everyone is safe #VaccineEquity