Exploring COVID-19 Related Factors and Psychological Distress Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) Living with HIV in Argentina: Qualitative and Quantitative Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Our study aimed to understand how COVID-19 impacted the wellbeing of men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. In this mixed-methods study we conducted a quantitative survey among 97 MSM living with HIV as well as in-depth qualitative 9 interviews with MSM living with HIV and health representatives. Results revealed that a high frequency of participants perceived some degree of impact on sexual activity due to COVID-19, with most of the MSM engaging in sex less frequently. Our results also indicate that an increase in precarious food, housing, and medical care access caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on mental health. The qualitative findings demonstrated the benefit of communication at each level of care from patient, to care navigator, care provider, and the Ministry of Health in improving the care among PLWH.