1COVID-19 AND THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: GUIDANCE

Type Web Page Author UN Human Rights Date 29/04/2020 Accessed 2020-05-05 Abstract While the COVID-19 pandemic threatens all members of society, persons with disabilities are disproportionately impacted due to attitudinal, environmental and institutional barriers that are reproduced in the COVID-19 response. Many persons with disabilities have pre-existing health conditions that make them more susceptible to contracting the virus, experiencing more severe symptoms upon infection, leading to elevated levels of death. During the COVID-19 crisis, persons with disabilities who are dependent on support for their daily living may find themselves isolated and unable to survive during lockdown measures, while those living in institutions are particularly vulnerable, as evidenced by the overwhelming numbers of deaths in residentialcare homes and psychiatric facilities. Website Title United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner