VULNERABLE groups, such as patients with mental health disorders, are considered to be disproportionately affected during disasters and pandemics. However, not much has been reported on how the current Covid-19 pandemic affects people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders with a prevalence of 1% worldwide.
A fixation with routine is a common characteristic of children on the autism spectrum, and disruptions in routine linked to Covid-19 could cause significant emotional and behavioural upheaval.