Disability considerations during the COVID-19 outbreak

Abstract

Considerations for actors: Actions for people with disability and their household Reduce your potential exposure to COVID-19. Everyone with disability and their household should follow the WHO guidance on basic protection measures during the COVID-19 outbreak.1 If you have any difficulty following these basic protection measures (for example, you are not able to access a handbasin or sink to wash your hands regularly), work with your family, friends and caregivers to identify adaptations. In addition: − Avoid crowded environments to the maximum extent possible and minimize physical contact with other people. Consider making necessary visits outside of peak time periods. Take advantage of special opening hours for people with disability where these are offered. − Make purchases online or request assistance from family, friends, or caregivers to avoid needing to access crowded environments. − Consider gathering urgent items you need such as food, cleaning supplies, medication or medical supplies to reduce the frequency with which you need to access public places. − Work from home if possible, especially if you typically work in a busy or crowded environment. − Ensure that assistive products, if used, are disinfected frequently; these include wheelchairs, walking canes, walkers, transfer boards, white canes, or any other product that is frequently handled and used in public spaces.