We have compiled a list of documents and web links providing information about harm reduction , treatment and support for people who use drugs during the pandemic from various organisations, both at a global and national level. The list will not be exhaustive, and in a rapidly evolving situation advice may change; in addition to current documents, we have provided website addresses where possible so that you can stay updated on the latest information and guidance.
Date of last update 11/04/20
International position statements about people who use drugs and COVID-19
ISAM. “COVID-19 and Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations to a Comprehensive Healthcare Response. An International Society of Addiction Medicine (ISAM) Practice and Policy Interest Group Position Paper” Document link. Organisation link.
EMCDA. “EMCDDA update on the implications of COVID-19 for people who use drugs (PWUD) and drug service providers” Document link. Organisation link.
EHRM. “The position of Correlation – European Harm Reduction Network and the Eurasian Harm Reduction Association on the continuity of harm reduction services during the COVID-19 crisis” Document Link. Organisation Link
INPUD, HRI, IDPC. “In the time of COVID-19: Civil Society Statement on COVID-19 and People who use Drugs” Document Link. Organisation Link
UNODC. “Suggestions about treatment, care and rehabilitation of people with drug use disorder in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic; A contribution to the health security of countries and communities” Document link. Organisation Link
Guidance from national/ regional organisations around the world
Public Health England. “COVID-19: guidance for commissioners and providers of services for people who use drugs or alcohol” https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-commissioners-and-providers-of-services-for-people-who-use-drugs-or-alcohol/covid-19-guidance-for-commissioners-and-providers-of-services-for-people-who-use-drugs-or-alcohol
BCCSU. “Risk Mitigation in the Context of Dual Public Health Emergencies” Document Link. Organisation Link
CDC. “Interim guidance for homeless service providers to plan and respond to coronavirus disease” Document Link Organisation Link
SAMHSA. “OTP Guidance for Patients Quarantined at Home with the Coronavirus” Document Link Organisation Link
Scottish Drugs Forum. “Guidelines on contingency planning for people who use drugs and COVID_19” Document Link. Organisation Link
Change, Grow, Live. “Opioid MAT Treatment: Coronavirus (COVID-19)” Document Link Organisation Link
Change, Grow, Live. “Guidelines for Medication delivery: Coronavirus (COVID-19)” Document Link
Harm Reduction Coalition. “Syringe Services and Harm Reduction Provider Operations During the COVID-19 Outbreak” Document Link. Organisation Link.
Online Resources from the American Society of Addiction Medicine:https://www.asam.org/Quality-Science/covid-19-coronavirus
Online Resources from Transform Drugs: https://transformdrugs.org/coronavirus-and-drug-harm-reduction/
CAMH. “COVID-19 – Opioid Agonist Treatment Guidance” Document Link. Organisation Link
Useful Infographics
COVID-19: HIV prevention, treatment, care and support for people who use drugs
HIV prevention, treatment, care and support for people who use drugs – advice for service providers
