Authors/editor(s): © PAHO, UNFPA, and UN Women, 2020

Gender-based violence (GBV) violence shelters4 are safe places where survivors of intimate partner, domestic, and/or family violence can get help and temporary housing. GBV shelters provide critical support, immediate protection, safe emergency shelter, and longer-term transitional housing. Because of the nature of the shelters, survivors of violence may reside in proximity, for either a limited or extended period of time, and there may be a high degree of interaction among survivors, shelter staff, and other essential service providers. These and other aspects of shelter living, such as restrictions on resident movement and lack of alternative work schedules for staff, can make these environments especially vulnerable to infectious diseases.

The objectives of this document are to provide guidance on infection prevention and control (IPC) measures in shelters for women and children survivors of family violence in the context of COVID-19.

Publishing entities: © PAHO, UNFPA, and UN Women