Clinical Infectious Needs of Adults Displaced from Ukraine

Abstract

Aim
Since February 2022 Ireland has facilitated the resettlement of 119’043 Ukrainians. Our objective was to evaluate case complexity, barriers to access and impact on service.

Methods
A retrospective chart review using the electronic patient record, data was compiled and results collated.

Results
123 people displaced from Ukraine newly attended between February 2022–April 2024, 63/123 (51.2%) females. 76 (61.8%) had HIV (PLWH); 68 (89.5%) known diagnoses; 39 (57.3%) were virally suppressed on ART, 27 (40%) were viraemic. Seven (5.7%) newly diagnosed; 4 (57%) with advanced disease (mean CD4 285 IU/mL [28 - 753]). Thirty-two (42%) co-infected with HCV, 4 (5.3%) with HBV. 37 (30%) had HCV mono-infection, 9 (7.3%) had HBV mono-infection. There were 4 (3.25%) cases of active TB; three of MDR pulmonary disease and one extrapulmonary case. Four, 10.5% of women LWH have had pregnancies. Average distance travelled to clinic is 103.9KM; 50.4% (62/123) could access public transport. 115 (93.5%) required an interpreter. 26 (21%) required admission; average length of stay 22.9 days (597 bed days).

Discussion
High background rates of infectious diseases Ukraine necessitated specialist healthcare along with intensified surveillance. We identified significant case complexity and high ID service needs.