The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with HIV in Victoria, Australia.

Weerasuria, Mihiri; Ko, Christy; Ehm, Adam; O'Bryan, Jessica; McMahon, James H; Woolley, Ian; Hoy, Jennifer; Lau, Jillian

As of 12th January 2021, Australia has reported 28,634 COVID-19 cases. Most (20,411) cases are from the state of Victoria. In response to rising infections and community transmission in July 2020, on 2nd August several restrictions were imposed for the following 111 days, including an 8pm curfew, a travel restriction to 5km from home, and closure of non-essential services. It is unknown how this affected people living with HIV (PLHIV), who already experience disproportionate levels of mental health issues, comorbidity and stigma. An online survey was designed with HIV community-based organisations to investigate the impact of the pandemic on Victorian PLHIV. Participants were recruited voluntarily both through social media and Infectious Diseases clinics at participating hospitals. There were 153 respondents. Most were male (77%), aged between 30 and 60 years (77%), and Australian-born (63%). Forty-three percent, 31%, and 25% reported negative impacts upon personal relationships, employment, and income, respectively. HIV care continued with 95% and 98% being able to access their HIV provider and antiretroviral therapy (ART), respectively. Telehealth was used by 92% and was largely well received. PLHIV reported worry about physical health (68%), mental health (66%), finances (50%) and accommodation (25%). Fifty percent of participants reported weight gain and 27% increased alcohol intake. This study demonstrated the widespread negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on PLHIV in Victoria, although provision of HIV care and ART continued uninterrupted. This highlighted the importance of mental health support and social welfare programs during times of healthcare and societal strain.