Georgia – 110 cases of COVID-19, till 5,000 under the quarantine measures, no deaths (31.03.2020).
From 21 March till 21 April there is announced a state of emergency in the whole territory of the country.

Harm reduction programs are being implemented continuously in Georgia within new circumstances related to COVID-19. There is a new regulation in the Substitution Program. According to it, 5 days’ dose is being delivered to clients to avoid their everyday arrival at OST sites and support prevention measures. There is initiated a dialogue to increase the number of take-home doses till 14.

Georgian Harm Reduction Network (GHRN) continues to provide HIV/HCV services by 16 harm reduction sites. There was issued a new methodological guideline, How to work within the increased threat of COVID-19 to support harm reduction personnel to stay safe and ensure the safety of their clients. According to new regulation HIV testing on a blood sample is restricted at outreach work, but is maintained at the offices. Outreach workers mostly work on a distance mode. There is an increase in the number of distributed materials to clients. This is a preferable number of sterile injecting equipment and Naloxone that is enough at least 1 week for the group of injectors.

Besides, informational and educational materials are prepared and delivered to a targeted audience via online platforms, as well by printed ones which are delivered to clients.

In Tbilisi harm reduction sites handmade masks are prepared within the Global Fund project to address the lack of accessibility to medical masks and related materials. GHRN ensured procurement of needed supplies: sanitizers, disinfectants, latex gloves and masks for multiple uses. To avoid complication with the Police during the state of emergency that is taking place in Georgia, GHRN together with CDC Georgia has prepared an official letter notifying all the interested parties/institutions about the importance of uninterrupted work of harm reduction program within new circumstances.

Marine Gogia