Easy COVID-19 Lockdown: A Potential Public Health Concern for Youth with Substance Use Disorders in Rwanda

The aim of this paper was to discuss the potential public health
concern for youth with substance use disorders in Rwanda during
COVID-19 easy lockdown. Rwanda was the first African country
to impose strict measures that may reduce not only the spread of
infection but also accessibility of drugs. The nationwide COVID-19
restrictions in the landlocked country were eased on May 4 and
public and private transport resumed. As well as markets and shops
opened. In all districts, local authorities reminded the community
about COVID-19 prevention measures. However, adolescents’
individual, familial, and social vulnerability, as well as individual
and familial coping abilities, are factors related to adolescent drug
use and misuse in times of crisis. Youth with SUDs are often
vulnerable and require careful consideration by caregivers and
healthcare system adaptations to allow for mental health support
despite COVID-19 measures. Research on youth with SUDs in
times of pandemics is necessary, as such a global situation could
be prolonged or repeated.