Taking real issues to virtual conferences: The training of YKP to discuss social vulnerability measures in the COVID-19 context

Agostinho Calixto, D.; Fagundes Correia, N.; Moreira Aló, C.; Bernardes Sousa, C.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic persisted for most of 2020 and, although the government initially canceled thousands of events, the need for adaptation forced many of them to go online. Through various digital platforms, people found new ways to deal with social distance and, at the same time, to promote events. Methods A two-step approach was used for this analysis: 1) creation of a data collection form using Google Forms, and 2) transfer of data from the form to a spreadsheet using Google Spreadsheets. Results The Ministry of Health of Brazil (MoH Brazil) started hosting webinars and virtual meetings. Between July and December 2020, MoH Brazil held four thematic webinars focusing on the Young Key Populations (YKP). As a result, more than 600 YKP were trained to deal with social vulnerabilities, especially with mental health and behavioral issues. Conclusion The use of this post-event databank will help governments to identify ways to move forward with the presentation of information and to organize trainings based on YKP interests. These webinars also represent a virtual safe space that engage the youth in a healthy discussion regarding social protection measures that are adapted to the covid-19 context..