An exploration of COVID-19 testing care and vaccination among people living with HIV in Vhembe District, Makhado Local Municipality

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is far-reaching, with worrying effects on people, communities, and societies worldwide. People with chronic health conditions pose a greater risk of contracting or experiencing difficulties from COVID-19. In addition to illness or death for those who contract the virus, the physical distancing required to flatten the curve of new cases is negatively impacting the economy, the effects of which intersect with mental health and other existing health concerns, thus affecting marginalized communities. The study aimed to explore barriers associated with COVID-19 testing, care and vaccination amongst people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Vhembe District, Makhado Local Municipality. This study employed a quantitative approach guided by a cross-sectional descriptive design. Participants in the study were purposely selected, and questionnaires were used to collect data. In total, three hundred participants completed questionnaires. The collected data was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 29.0. Ethical issues, such as anonymity and confidentiality, were considered throughout the study. The review identified four themes that showed PLHIV being severely affected by covid 19, and the study revealed that not over 75% of PLHIV had received the covid 19 vaccine. Drawing from the result, the researcher concluded that despite the widespread availability and accessibility of COVID-19 vaccines, vaccine hesitancy persists, influenced by diverse concerns and misconceptions. Two manuscripts have resulted from the study and are due for submission.

Author dc:creator

• Mammba, Khuliso Nnduvheni

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Makhado, L.

• Vaccination
• Antiretroviral Treatment (ART)
• COVID-19
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
• Stigma

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2780

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2780