Disabled, transgender communities under-vaccinated against Covid-19 in India

A recent study examined the challenges faced by disabled, transgender, and gender-diverse communities in India when trying to access Covid-19 vaccines.

The research highlighted several barriers, including communication gaps, difficulties with vaccine registration, transportation issues, and inadequate infrastructure.

These obstacles are part of a broader issue of deep-rooted inequalities within the healthcare system.

The study was conducted by Sharin D'souza and others from the Initiative for Health Equity, Advocacy, and Research, Bhopal Hub, Sangath, Bhopal, along with other institutions, and was published in Science Direct.

Researchers interviewed 45 individuals from the transgender and disabled communities, as well as health system representatives and key stakeholders.

Although India had one of the world's largest Covid-19 vaccination programs, by May 2021, only 5.22% of transgender and gender-diverse individuals were vaccinated, compared to 11.7% of the general population.

By November 2021, only about 0.03% of people with disabilities had been vaccinated, as per the study.

The study noted that both transgender and disabled communities in India are often marginalised due to stigma, discrimination, and lack of support, leading to higher rates of unemployment, poverty, and health issues.

Many depend on unstable jobs like begging or sex work, which, combined with poorer health, puts them at greater risk of Covid-19 complications, making early vaccination crucial.