AA&D Supports Infectious Disease Screening and Placement of Over 2,500 Homeless Individuals in Durban as South Africa Prepares for a Lockdown

AA&D is on the front lines supporting COVID-19 screening efforts amongst homeless individuals. On March 26th, South Africa entered a 21-day lockdown period to prevent further spread of COVID-19. AA&D took a key role in the lead up to the lockdown, by serving on the City's Homeless Task Team to select a reception center, 10 decentralized sites, and the coordination of screening and placement of over 2,500 homeless individuals. 

Between March 27-March 29, homeless individuals were screened for COVID-19, TB, and HIV and underwent an assessment by a team of health and social workers from the Departments of Health and Social Development. Individuals were then assigned to sites based on their presence of symptoms and past history of medical conditions. 

Upon placement into the 10 decentralized sites, AA&D is working alongside the City and the Department of Health to coordinate the ongoing medical care that will be provided for the duration of the lockdown, including specialized treatment for those experiencing symptoms of drug withdrawal. It is expected that close to 40% of this group will experience symptoms of withdrawal during this period. AA&D is coordinating  care from the public and private sector partners to ensure that patients are screened for withdrawal symptoms and is coordinating a team of specialists that will visit each site on a daily basis to monitor and respond to the needs of drug users in Durban. 

This comprehensive health screening provides a great opportunity to establish contact with this population and to treat acute needs while establishing mechanisms for delivery of care across public and private sectors that will extend beyond the COVID-19 crisis.