The impact of COVID-19 measures on children with disabilities and their families in Uganda

To understand the impact of the COVID-19 public health response on families of children with disabilities in Central Uganda we conducted phone interviews with parents and children during the first 5months of the outbreak (March July 2020). Most parents and children were well informed about COVID-19 and were keen to adhere to government prevention measures. The majority said lock-down measures had a negative effect on their mental and physical health, social life, finances, education and food security. Access to medical services and medication for chronic illness had been limited or absent due to restrictions in travel, some facilities restricting access, and limited financial resources. The majority of parents reported loss of work which resulted in difficulties in finding enough food and paying rent. Parents worried about children missing education and friends. We suggest greater attention to children with disabilities and their families when implementing mitigating and long-term responses.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 public health response has had a negative impact on families of children with disabilities in Central Uganda. Lock-down measures have limited social life, education, and access to medical services, leading to economic difficulties and food insecurity. Greater attention to the needs of these families is suggested in mitigating and long-term responses.