Access to sign language interpretation during COVID-19

COVID-19 has been declared a global pandemic, making the communication of information about the virus important in all nations. In this chapter, we investigate access to sign language interpretation by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from social media and survey research, we analyze how information was made accessible to these individuals as well as the experiences and challenges they encountered. We also discuss the different approaches used to bridge the communication gap to make information accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. COVID-19 has been declared a global pandemic, making the communication of information about the virus important in all nations. This chapter investigates the access to sign language interpretation by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, studies demonstrated that “deaf sign language users encounter barriers to healthcare and have worse outcomes than the general population”. The chapter analyzes how information delivery was made accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. It investigates the experiences and challenges of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals during the pandemic. Further, the chapter discusses the different approaches used to bridge the communication gap to make information accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. Finally, it discusses the use of social media to disseminate signed versions of COVID-19 information and safety measures.