Flooding and continuity of care for people living with human immunodeficiency virus in humanitarian settings
1
SDG Alliance, Yola, Nigeria
2
Society for Family Health, Yola, Nigeria
3
Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Climate-related flooding increasingly disrupts health systems and continuity of care. For people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), uninterrupted access to antiretroviral therapy, privacy, and psychosocial stability are essential for viral suppression and wellbeing. In Adamawa, Nigeria, recurrent flooding displaces communities and damages health infrastructure, placing HIV services at risk. This study examined how post-flood conditions affected antiretroviral therapy adherence, privacy, and mental wellbeing among people living with human immunodeficiency virus.
METHODS:
A mixed-methods study was conducted between June and September 2025 among members of two HIV support groups in Yola, Adamawa following two flood events. Quantitative data on treatment adherence and clinic attendance were collected from 72 participants using structured questionnaires and facility records. Qualitative data were obtained through 8 in-depth interviews and 2 focus group discussions with people living with HIV and healthcare providers. Quantitative data were summarised using simple counts, while qualitative data were analysed thematically.
RESULTS:
Flooding damaged 2 HIV clinics, disrupted service delivery, and led to loss of stored antiretroviral drugs. Among 72 participants, 44 missed at least one week of treatment due to displacement or drug loss. Participants in temporary camps reported limited privacy to take medication, leading some to hide or discard drugs due to fear of stigma. Women described greater challenges related to caregiving responsibilities and lack of private space. Health workers reported reduced clinic attendance following the floods and difficulties re-engaging clients. Qualitative findings highlighted anxiety, sleep disturbance, and feelings of shame linked to interrupted treatment. Peer-led outreach through support groups and community volunteers supported re-linkage to care once services resumed.
CONCLUSIONS:
Flood-related displacement poses serious risks to HIV treatment continuity and mental wellbeing. Strengthening climate-resilient health infrastructure, decentralising antiretroviral therapy delivery, and integrating psychosocial support into emergency responses are essential to protect continuity of care during climate-related shocks.
Climate-related flooding increasingly disrupts health systems and continuity of care. For people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), uninterrupted access to antiretroviral therapy, privacy, and psychosocial stability are essential for viral suppression and wellbeing. In Adamawa, Nigeria, recurrent flooding displaces communities and damages health infrastructure, placing HIV services at risk. This study examined how post-flood conditions affected antiretroviral therapy adherence, privacy, and mental wellbeing among people living with human immunodeficiency virus.
METHODS:
A mixed-methods study was conducted between June and September 2025 among members of two HIV support groups in Yola, Adamawa following two flood events. Quantitative data on treatment adherence and clinic attendance were collected from 72 participants using structured questionnaires and facility records. Qualitative data were obtained through 8 in-depth interviews and 2 focus group discussions with people living with HIV and healthcare providers. Quantitative data were summarised using simple counts, while qualitative data were analysed thematically.
RESULTS:
Flooding damaged 2 HIV clinics, disrupted service delivery, and led to loss of stored antiretroviral drugs. Among 72 participants, 44 missed at least one week of treatment due to displacement or drug loss. Participants in temporary camps reported limited privacy to take medication, leading some to hide or discard drugs due to fear of stigma. Women described greater challenges related to caregiving responsibilities and lack of private space. Health workers reported reduced clinic attendance following the floods and difficulties re-engaging clients. Qualitative findings highlighted anxiety, sleep disturbance, and feelings of shame linked to interrupted treatment. Peer-led outreach through support groups and community volunteers supported re-linkage to care once services resumed.
CONCLUSIONS:
Flood-related displacement poses serious risks to HIV treatment continuity and mental wellbeing. Strengthening climate-resilient health infrastructure, decentralising antiretroviral therapy delivery, and integrating psychosocial support into emergency responses are essential to protect continuity of care during climate-related shocks.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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