Impact Of COVID-19 on Patterns of Consumption and Socialization in Drug Injectors in Colombia-South America

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the use of psychoactive substances and associated health problems worldwide. Among people who inject drugs (PWID), social distancing has impacted the dynamics of supply and demand of drugs leading to new forms of illicit activities and consumption practices. This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 on consumption patterns and socialization of psychoactive substances in PWID in Armenia and Cúcuta cities in Colombia-South America using a qualitative approach informed by grounded theory. Participants (N=10; 20% female, ages 20-42 yrs.) were polydrug users and completed semi-structured interviews analyzed using thematic analysis, saturation, and constant comparisons. Results showed that the increased cost of heroin forced smoked heroin users to transition into PWIDs to reduce daily dosage. Limited income resulted on increased theft, begging on the streets, or having relatives support consumption. New supply mechanisms and marketing were developed due to social distancing such as residence express delivery and fixed hour location selling. Consumption practices transitioned from public spaces to homes and bathrooms and unsafe injection practices increased due to limited syringe supply. Results will be discussed in relation to social vulnerabilities in PWID, syndemic interactions, public policies and risk-reduction practices targeting PWID in Colombia.

Authors

• Dedsy Y. Berbesi-Fernandez, CES University

• Sara M. Ramos Jaraba, CES University

• Elizabeth Trejos-Castillo, Texas Tech University