Combat stigma and discrimination associated with COVID-19

Movement into Alert Level 3 of the lockdown, has resulted in the relaxation of the lockdown regulations, most industries and secors being permitted to return to operational mode which has resulted in a greater increase in movement of people. No doubt, this brings a level of relief to most.

However, the relaxation of some lockdown measures also brings with it an increased need for the monitoring of the health of employees for signs and symptoms of the Corona Virus and an implementation of additional health and safety measures in order to safeguard the health and safety of all in the workplace.  

Although monitoring is good, the virus does bring with it stigma and possible discriminatory behaviour against those who may have reported symptoms linked to the virus, have been exposed to high risk individuals or situations and especially those who may have tested positive for the virus. The fear of contracting the virus could even extend to some being marginalised due to their economic or social status, regardless of whether they are high risk or not.

While fear can at times bring people together, it also tends to make matters worse than they have to be, especially when there is stigma or discrimination. Although companies are taking vital steps to ensure our health and safety, when someone feels scared, humiliated, fears rejection or even fears losing their job or an income stream, that can make them hide their symptoms or illness.

When one conceals their illness, symptoms or doesn’t disclose facts about possible exposure to the virus, they risk unnecessary exposure for themselves or others to highly contagious situations. This can have dire consequences for everyone.

It has been said that South Africa cannot avoid an increase in Corona Virus infections in the coming months. This in itself, can cause fear. What can we do to avoid the unjustified fear and prevent discrimination?  We need to:

• do all that we can to protect ourselves, our staff and collegues from contracting the virus;
• adhere to the the workplace health and safety guidelines as issued by the Department of Health and implemented by our employers;
• increase education and awareness about the virus, how it spreads, how to avoid contracting or spreading it, as well as the necessary protocalls when someone has tested positive for the virus.
• continue to raise awareness and ensure that everyone follows respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene;
• create a conducive environment where all employees have a responsibility to monitor their health and do report symptoms without fear of stigmatisation or discrimination;
• ensure that with the implementation of health risk assessments, there is a discreet process for dealing with those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. With all medical information being treated in a confidential manner.

Importantly though is awareness that the virus does not discriminate and neither should we.

So, while employers and managers must make others aware of an increased risk of exposure to the Covid-19 virus in the workplace, they must create an environment which does not encourage discriminatory behavior. We all have a responsibility to treat each other with respect and empathy, while not placing additional mental, physical or emotional burdens to an already precarious environment. Doing so could mean saving your life and that of your colleague.

How to contact MISA during the lockdown?

Kindly utilise the following e-mail addresses and links for assistance during this time:

#MISACARES #MISAONTHEMOVE