COVID-19 e Migration: a virus without borders
Vulnerability caused by human mobility knows many forms, yet COVID-19 has amplified the risks faced by migrants and refugees in new and dangerous ways: Refugees living in crowded camps or overpopulated urban settings may not have the tools or ability to prevent disease transmission themselves. Socially vulnerable migrants may be physically present in communities – and may contribute to making lockdowns possible for some (as the couriers who deliver meals, the fruit and vegetable pickers, the domestic workers) – but may remain excluded in every other way. For these individuals, vaccines are often impossible to access. Misinformation runs high.
Migrants and refugees’ voices and experiences are often absent in COVID-19 research; their needs neglected when crafting COVID-19 response. As a result, the 2022 MSF Scientific Days LatAm conference will explore the ways that COVID-19 has compounded refugees and migrants’ health risks and vulnerability around the world, with particular areas of focus on (i) migrants in the Americas, (ii) attitudes towards preventive health measures (masks and vaccination) among global refugee populations, and (iii) other topics that straddle the intersection of migration and health in the COVID-10 era. The day will feature original research, active debate, and a spotlight on a critical but chronically underemphasized population of people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Please join us virtually on Sept. 29th, 2022 to join the conversation.