GROUNDBREAKING research set to be released at the upcoming European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) has found that being stuck overseas during COVID-19 border closures caused high levels of stress.
The observational study from scientists at the University of NSW looked at the COVID-19 information and support options provided by 11 countries, including Australia, to their citizens stranded overseas in Jun 2021.
It found there were "gaps, inconsistencies, and potential inequities in the support available", with more than half the people they looked at having been stranded for over five months.
Around two-thirds reported financial distress and a moderate or severe level of depression - a rate substantially higher than the general population during the pandemic.
"Very little attention has been paid to the unintended consequences of these restrictions on people's lives and wellbeing," said lead researcher, Associate Professor Holly Searle.
"Often the focus is on tourism and holidays, yet many tens of thousands of people were separated from their partners or families for 18 months or more.
"We hope our findings will help policymakers plan and communicate support packages for this vulnerable population in future public health crises."
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