Immigration status may prevent persons with symptoms from seeking health services – IOM rep

COVID-19 outbreak

Deepening economic crisis has resulted in many Venezuelans fleeing their country in search of a better life in Guyana. But with the COVID-19 pandemic at hand, many of these persons might be scared or reluctant to inform authorities if they display symptoms of the virus.

This was communicated by Chief of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Robert Natiello on Friday, during a discussion facilitated by the Public Health Ministry on the epidemic. At present, Guyana has confirmed 63 positive cases of COVID-19.
With fear about their immigration status, many migrants would choose to conceal their symptoms, rather than visiting a health facility. This could prove significantly dangerous in containing the virus.
“Some of the migrants may not have regular migration status so I have some concerns there because those folks may be less willing to seek health services if they don’t feel well and if they are showing signs of the flu or the virus so this is a worrying situation,” Natiello stated.
It was indicated that refugees are regarded as the most vulnerable in the populace, which has resulted in appeals to render assistance.
“Migrants and refugees can be among the most vulnerable populations when it comes to the issue of this pandemic and also in regards to other natural disasters as well. Globally, IOM has increased its work and we have issued a global appeal in the amount of 116 million dollars,” he stated.
He praised the fact that a large fraction of Guyanese doctors can communicate with the Spanish-speaking migrants, making it a little easier to address their concerns.
“Fortunately, we have a solid cadre of medical workers in Guyana who speaks Spanish because they have undergone medical studies in Cuba. That helps us and I think that puts us in a good position.”
However, the Chief of Mission zeroed in on the need for countries to render assistance to everyone residing within their borders, without discriminating against citizenship or migration status.
“We provide access and allow access for everyone who is in the country. According to UN conventions and international treaties on human rights, it is important to mention that states are responsible for the wellbeing of persons who are in their territory. With borders closed, it is more difficult for people to return home and so it is important to assist those persons who are here, regardless of their migration status,” Natiello commented.
Three weeks ago, Head of the Civil Defence Commission, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig said they have been paying close watch in the border regions for movement of migrants. Efforts were continuing, especially in the Region One (Barima-Waini) zone since it is especially one of concern, owing to the high traffic of migrants from Venezuela.
The United Nations has already warned that the coronavirus (COVID-19) will bring increased illegal border crossings by neighbouring Venezuelans, looking to flee the already beleaguered state.
Guyana shares a 3000-kilometre largely unpatrolled and unprotected border with Venezuela and according to a recently-released United Nations report, “…with new or revised entry requirements imposed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability of refugees and migrants to regularly enter and stay in some countries has decreased”.