Health surveillance among indigenous populations in the context of COVID-19: a scoping review

Abstract

The study aimed to identify protection strategies used by Indigenous peoples during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyzing 56 articles from 2020 to May 2021 across four areas -community organization, governance, communication, and territorial approaches - it found that structural vulnerabilities shaped their responses. The spread of the virus was influenced by environmental, social, and cultural factors. Indigenous groups employed diverse strategies like collective decision-making and traditional knowledge. Challenges included data suppression and barriers to ethnic identification. The study emphasizes the need for greater Indigenous autonomy in data management and effective coordination among government, civil society, and Indigenous organizations.