1
|
Ghassemi EY, Thorseth AH, Le Roch K, Heath T, White S. Mapping the association between mental health and people's perceived and actual ability to practice hygiene-related behaviours in humanitarian and pandemic crises: A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286494. [PMID: 38096240 PMCID: PMC10721104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Humanitarian crises such as disease outbreaks, conflict and displacement and natural disasters affect millions of people primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Here, they often reside in areas with poor environmental health conditions leading to an increased burden of infectious diseases such as gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. Water, sanitation, and hygiene behaviours are critical to prevent such infections and deaths. A scoping review was conducted to map out what is known about the association between three mental health disorders and people's perceived and actual ability to practice hygiene-related behaviours, particularly handwashing, in humanitarian and pandemic crises. Published and grey literature was identified through database searches, humanitarian-relevant portals, and consultations with key stakeholders in the humanitarian sector. 25 publications were included, 21 were peer-reviewed published articles and four were grey literature publications. Most of the studies were conducted in mainland China (n = 12) and most were conducted in an outbreak setting (n = 20). Six studies found a positive correlation between handwashing and anxiety where participants with higher rates of anxiety were more likely to practice handwashing with soap. Four studies found an inverse relationship where those with higher rates of anxiety were less likely to wash their hands with soap. The review found mixed results for the association between handwashing and depression, with four of the seven studies reporting those with higher rates of depression were less likely to wash their hands, while the remaining studies found that higher depression scores resulted in more handwashing. Mixed results were also found between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and handwashing. Two studies found that lower scores of PTSD were associated with better hygiene practices, including handwashing with soap. The contradictory patterns suggest that researchers and practitioners need to explore this association further, in a wider range of crises, and need to standardize tools to do so.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Yasmin Ghassemi
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Astrid Hasund Thorseth
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Sian White
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tan SY, Oka P, Tan NC. Intention to Vaccinate against COVID-19 in Adolescents: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1393. [PMID: 37631961 PMCID: PMC10458082 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in adolescents; these vaccines play a critical role in limiting the transmission and impact of COVID-19. This systematic review aims to summarize the willingness of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years to receive the COVID-19 vaccination and the factors influencing their decision. METHODS A search of literature published between January 2018 and August 2022 was performed in Medline©, EMBASE©. and CINAHL© electronic databases. Studies published in English that assessed adolescents' intentions to receive the COVID-19 vaccine were included. Qualitative studies and those unrelated to the COVID-19 vaccine were excluded. The study was conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Of the 1074 articles retrieved, 13 were included in the final review. Most studies were conducted in the US (n = 3) and China (n = 3). The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among adolescents was 63% (95% CI: 52-73%). Factors influencing intent to vaccinate were divided into five categories: "Socio-demographic determinants"; "Communication about COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination"; "COVID-19 vaccine and related issues"; "COVID-19 infection and related issues" and "Other determinants". The enablers were sociodemographic factors including older age, higher education level, good health perception, and parental norms in terms of parental vaccination acceptance; perceived vaccine effectiveness and safety; a desire to protect themselves and others; recent vaccination; and anxiety. The barriers were concerns over vaccine effectiveness, safety, and long-term side effects; low perceived necessity and risk of infection; and needle phobia. CONCLUSIONS This review highlighted that adolescents' intent to vaccinate is driven by a desire to protect themselves and others. However, concerns over vaccine effectiveness, safety, and long-term side effects hinder COVID-19 vaccine uptake. To improve vaccination acceptance, policymakers should address adolescents' concerns via more targeted public health messaging, while schools should leverage peer norms to positively influence vaccination intent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shyn Yi Tan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore 308232, Singapore;
| | - Prawira Oka
- SingHealth Polyclinics, Jalan Bukit Merah Connection One, Singapore 150167, Singapore;
- SingHealth-Duke NUS Family Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, Outram Road, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Ngiap Chuan Tan
- SingHealth Polyclinics, Jalan Bukit Merah Connection One, Singapore 150167, Singapore;
- SingHealth-Duke NUS Family Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, Outram Road, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ellakany P, Folayan MO, El Tantawi M, Abeldaño Zuñiga RA, Aly NM, Ara E, Gaffar B, Ishabiyi AO, Quadri MFA, Khan ATA, Khalid Z, Lawal FB, Popoola BO, Lusher J, Yousaf MA, Virtanen JI, Nguyen AL. Associations between depression, fear of COVID-19 infection and students' self-care measures used during the first wave of the pandemic. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1047. [PMID: 37264389 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15954-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 lockdown resulted in the closure of schools with associated problems. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between depression, fear of contracting COVID-19 infection and the use of self-care measures by college students during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that collected data from undergraduate and postgraduate college students 18 years and older from 152 countries between June and December 2020. Study participants were recruited through crowdsourcing using various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, WhatsApp groups and emails to participants in the collaborators' networks. The dependent variables were fear of contracting COVID-19 and depression while the independent variable was students' self-care measures. Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to assess the associations between the dependent and independent variables. RESULTS Of the 2840 respondents, 1305 (46.0%) had fears of contracting COVID-19 and 599 (21.1%) reported depression. The most common self-care measures were phone calls with friends/family (60.1%) and video chat (52.8%). Learning a new skill was significantly associated with higher odds of fear of contracting COVID-19 (AOR = 1.669) and lower odds of having depression (AOR = 0.684). Talking to friends/family through video chat (AOR = 0.809) was significantly associated with lower odds of feeling depressed while spending time with pets (AOR = 1.470) and taking breaks from the news/social media (AOR = 1.242) were significantly associated with higher odds of feeling depressed. Students from lower middle-income countries (AOR = 0.330) had significantly lower odds of feeling depressed than students from low-income countries. CONCLUSION Self-care strategies involving social interactions were associated with less depression. Coping strategies with more cognitive demands may significantly reduce the risk of fear of COVID-19. Special attention needs to be given to students in low-income countries who have higher odds of depression during the pandemic than students from other countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Passent Ellakany
- Department of Substitutive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Maha El Tantawi
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Nourhan M Aly
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eshrat Ara
- Department of Psychology, Government College for Women, Cluster University of Srinagar, Moulana Azad Road Srinagar Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, 190001, India
| | - Balgis Gaffar
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mir Faeq Ali Quadri
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Abeedah Tu-Allah Khan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Zumama Khalid
- School of Biological Sciences, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Folake Barakat Lawal
- Department of Periodontology and Community Dentistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibdan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Annie Lu Nguyen
- Department of Family Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Prista A. Efficacy of government laws to contain SARS-CoV-2 spread in Mozambique. J Public Health Afr 2023; 14:2218. [PMID: 37197261 PMCID: PMC10184178 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2023.2218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this research was to assess the relationship between infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) containment measures implemented in Mozambique and the spread of SARS-CoV-2 from March 17, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Materials and Methods The number of SARS-CoV-2 tests conducted, the positivity rate for SARS-CoV-2, the daily hospitalization due to COVID-19, and the average number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 each day were all documented in a database, from which the positivity rate and weekly growth rate were calculated. Seven milestones were specified, each corresponding to a critical date in the legal measures linked to confinement and relaxation of measures. To compare SARS-CoV-2 data, three periods were created for each milestone: Period 1 = 15 days before the date of the decree; Period 2 = Date of the decree to the 15th day after; and Period 3 = from the 16th day to the 30th day of the decree date. ANOVA was used to compare the average values for each indicator between the three times for each milestone. Results A comparison of all indicators in each milestone's three periods reveals no consistent significant impact of the measures, regardless of the tendency to lockdown or provide relief. Conclusion No relationship was discovered between the legal measures for SARS-CoV-2 pandemic control and the positive rate and growth rates, as well as the number of hospitalized people. Because it was not feasible to determine the degree of efficacy of each specific measure, this conclusion is related to the measures as a whole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- António Prista
- Universidade Pedagógica de Maputo, Av. Eduardo Mondlane, nº 901, Maputo, Mozambique. +258.820110110.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Haag K, Du Toit S, Mikus N, Skeen S, Steventon Roberts K, Marlow M, Notholi V, Sambudla A, Chideya Y, Sherr L, Tomlinson M. Does pre-COVID impulsive behaviour predict adherence to hygiene and social distancing measures in youths following the COVID-19 pandemic onset? Evidence from a South African longitudinal study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:533. [PMID: 36941589 PMCID: PMC10027426 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15310-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engagement in protective behaviours relating to the COVID-19 pandemic has been proposed to be key to infection control. This is particularly the case for youths as key drivers of infections. A range of factors influencing adherence have been identified, including impulsivity and risk taking. We assessed the association between pre-COVID impulsivity levels and engagement in preventative measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in a longitudinal South African sample, in order to inform future pandemic planning. METHODS Data were collected from N = 214 youths (mean age at baseline: M = 17.81 (SD = .71), 55.6% female) living in a South African peri-urban settlement characterised by high poverty and deprivation. Baseline assessments were taken in 2018/19 and the COVID follow-up was conducted in June-October 2020 via remote data collection. Impulsivity was assessed using the Balloon Analogue Task (BART), while hygiene and social distancing behaviours were captured through self-report. Stepwise hierarchical regression analyses were performed to estimate effects of impulsivity on measure adherence. RESULTS Self-rated engagement in hygiene behaviours was high (67.1-86.1% "most of the time", except for "coughing/sneezing into one's elbow" at 33.3%), while engagement in social distancing behaviours varied (22.4-57.8% "most of the time"). Higher impulsivity predicted lower levels of hygiene (β = .14, p = .041) but not social distancing behaviours (β = -.02, p = .82). This association was retained when controlling for a range of demographic and COVID-related factors (β = .14, p = .047) and was slightly reduced when including the effects of a life-skills interventions on hygiene behaviour (β = -.13, p = .073). CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that impulsivity may predict adolescent engagement in hygiene behaviours post COVID-19 pandemic onset in a high risk, sub-Saharan African setting, albeit with a small effect size. For future pandemics, it is important to understand predictors of engagement, particularly in the context of adversity, where adherence may be challenging. Limitations include a small sample size and potential measure shortcomings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Haag
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Present affiliation: Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute for Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefani Du Toit
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nace Mikus
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Interacting Minds Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sarah Skeen
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Marguerite Marlow
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vuyolwethu Notholi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Akhona Sambudla
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yeukai Chideya
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University, Belfast, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Shoghli A, Maleki A, Masjedi MR, Hessari MB, Khodaei S. The effect of peer-to-peer education on health literacy, knowledge, and adherence to COVID-19 protocols in vulnerable adolescents. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:18. [PMID: 36650437 PMCID: PMC9843949 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-01979-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study was done to examine the effectiveness of peer-to-peer education on increasing health literacy, knowledge s, and observance of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) health prevention protocols in vulnerable adolescents. METHOD The study was a one-group intervention (before and after the intervention) that was performed on 1200 vulnerable adolescents living in varamin. The educational intervention was presented to adolescents in a face-to-face session. In the next step, the adolescents were taught the information received by three members of their families. Data were evaluated using a self-designed questionnaire before, and three months after the intervention. The paired t-test was used to compare scores of health literacy, compliance, and knowledge before and after the intervention at a 0.05 confidence level. The Multiple linear regression model was used to determine the predictive factors of observance of COVID-19 preventive behaviors. RESULTS The most of adolescents were in the age group of 14 to 18 years (60%) and most of them were girls (61.5%). The most important source of information about COVID-19 disease was radio and television (59.6%). The results showed that the effectiveness of the intervention in increasing the adolescents' health literacy, knowledge, and adherence to preventive behaviors were 40%, 30%, and 23%, respectively. The effectiveness of the intervention in increasing their families' health literacy and adherence to the protocols were 11% and 20%, respectively (p = 0.001). DISCUSSION Involving volunteer adolescents as health ambassadors and transmitting messages and methods of promoting personal protection against COVID-19 epidemics to family members had a significant effect on increasing the knowledge and adherence to the health procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Shoghli
- grid.469309.10000 0004 0612 8427Health Services Management, School of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Azam Maleki
- grid.469309.10000 0004 0612 8427Reproductive Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Masjedi
- Pulmonary Diseases, Tobacco Control Research Center (TCRC), Iranian Anti-Tobacco Association, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Siavash Khodaei
- English Language Teaching, administration manager of Iran Non-Communicable Diseases, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mchunu GG, Harris O, Nxumalo CT. Exploring primary healthcare practitioners' experiences regarding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2022; 23:e67. [PMID: 36330843 PMCID: PMC9641673 DOI: 10.1017/s1463423622000536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread rapidly around the world since the initial outbreak in Wuhan, China. With the emergence of the Omicron variant, South Africa is presently the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Healthcare workers have been at the forefront of the pandemic in terms of screening, early detection and clinical management of suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases. Since the beginning of the outbreak, little has been reported on how healthcare workers have experienced the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa, particularly within a low-income, rural primary care context. METHODS The purpose of the present qualitative study design was to explore primary healthcare practitioners' experiences regarding the COVID-19 pandemic at two selected primary healthcare facilities within a low-income rural context in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 15 participants, which consisted of nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists, community caregivers, social workers and clinical associates. The participants were both men and women who were all above the age of 20. Data were collected through individual, in-depth face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed manually by thematic analysis following Tech's steps of data analysis. RESULTS Participants reported personal, occupational and community-related experiences related to the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Personal experiences of COVID-19 yielded superordinate themes of psychological distress, self-stigma, disruption of the social norm, Epiphany and conflict of interest. Occupational experiences yielded superordinate themes of staff infections, COVID-19-related courtesy stigma, resource constraints and poor dissemination of information. Community-related experiences were related to struggles with societal issues, clinician-patient relations and COVID-19 mismanagement of patients. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest that primary healthcare practitioners' experiences around COVID-19 are attributed to the catastrophic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with the multitude of psychosocial consequences forming the essence of these experiences. Ensuring availability of reliable sources of information regarding the pandemic as well as psychosocial support could be valuable in helping healthcare workers cope with living and working during the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gugu Gladness Mchunu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Orlando Harris
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Fransisco, CA, USA
| | - Celenkosini Thembelenkosini Nxumalo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
- College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schwartz CE, Borowiec K, Biletch E, Rapkin BD. Race-related differences in the economic, healthcare-access, and psychological impact of COVID-19: personal resources associated with resilience. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2022; 6:113. [PMID: 36251138 PMCID: PMC9574813 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-022-00514-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID) is worse among those with fewer financial resources, in jobs not amenable to remote work, and in denser living conditions. People of color are more likely to be among these vulnerable groups. Although race itself is a social construction and not based on underlying genetic/biological differences, this study investigated race/ethnicity differences in the negative repercussions of COVID and in the benefits of psychological and social resources.
Methods This cross-sectional, web-based study (n = 4817) was administered to a heterogeneous United States sample in Spring/Summer 2020. Information was gathered on the following COVID-specific variables: Infection Status, Coping with Lockdown, Social Support, Post-traumatic Growth, Interpersonal Conflict, Worry about Self, Financial Impact on Family, Lack of Money, Inadequate Access to Healthcare, and Housing Instability. Resilience was operationalized as the ability to maintain a sense of wellness in the face of the pandemic, using the DeltaQuest Wellness measure. Multivariate linear regression (adjusting for demographics) and propensity-matched cohort analysis (matched on demographics) evaluated the impact of COVID-specific variables on Wellness in separate models for Whites and Non-Whites. Findings Both sets of models retained the same COVID-specific variables and explained about half of the variance in wellness. Coping with Lockdown, Social Support, and Post-traumatic Growth were associated with higher levels of Wellness in both Whites and Non-Whites, while Interpersonal Conflict and Worry about Self were associated with lower levels of Wellness. While these associations are similar, Non-Whites reported worse levels of some positive resources (e.g., social support) and more challenging levels of negative stressors (e.g., interpersonal, worry, financial). Non-Whites also reported much higher levels of post-traumatic growth. Conclusion COVID was a source of worry and even conflict, but also unlocked people’s resources in use of health-enhancing behavioral strategies, social support, and renewed gratitude for sources of personal meaning and value. The similar relationships between Whites and Non-Whites on wellness and COVID-specific stressors across racial groups underscore that race is a social construction, not a biological fact. Focusing on a renewed appreciation for sources of personal meaning, and particularly faith, seemed to buffer much of the COVID-related stress for Non-Whites. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41687-022-00514-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn E Schwartz
- DeltaQuest Foundation, Inc., 31 Mitchell Road, Concord, MA, 01742, USA. .,Departments of Medicine and Orthopaedic Surgery, Tufts University Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Katrina Borowiec
- DeltaQuest Foundation, Inc., 31 Mitchell Road, Concord, MA, 01742, USA.,Department of Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics, & Assessment, Boston College Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Elijah Biletch
- DeltaQuest Foundation, Inc., 31 Mitchell Road, Concord, MA, 01742, USA.,Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Bruce D Rapkin
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Atinga RA, Alhassan NMI, Ayawine A. Recovered but Constrained: Narratives of Ghanaian COVID-19 Survivors Experiences and Coping Pathways of Stigma, Discrimination, Social Exclusion and Their Sequels. Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:1801-1813. [PMID: 34634884 PMCID: PMC9808237 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2021.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), its epidemiology and socio-economic impact on populations worldwide has gained attention. However, there is dearth of empirical knowledge in low- and middle-income settings about the pandemic's impact on survivors, particularly the tension of their everyday life arising from the experiences and consequences of stigma, discrimination and social exclusion, and how they cope with these behavioral adversities. METHODS Realist qualitative approach drawing data from people clinically diagnosed positive of COVID-19, admitted into therapy in a designated treatment facility, and subsequently recovered and discharged for or without follow-up domiciliary care. In-depth interviews were conducted by maintaining a code book for identifying and documenting thematic categories in a progression leading to thematic saturation with 45 participants. Data were transcribed and coded deductively for broad themes at the start before systematically nesting emerging themes into the broad ones with the aid of NVivo 12 software. RESULTS Everyday lived experiences of the participants were disrupted with acts of indirect stigmatization (against relatives and family members), direct stigmatization (labeling, prejudices and stereotyping), barriers to realizing full social life and discriminatory behaviors across socio-ecological structures (workplace, community, family, and social institutions). These behavioral adversities were associated with self-reported poor health, anxiety and psychological disorders, and frustrations among others. Consequently, supplicatory prayers, societal and organizational withdrawal, aggressive behaviors, supportive counseling, and self-assertive behaviors were adopted to cope and modify the adverse behaviors driven by misinformation and fearful perceptions of the COVID-19 and its contagious proportions. CONCLUSION In the face of the analysis, social campaigns and dissemination of toolkits that can trigger behavior change and responsible behaviors toward COVID-19 survivors are proposed to be implemented by health stakeholders, policy and decision makers in partnership with social influencers, the media, and telecoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roger A. Atinga
- Department of Public Administration and Health Services Management, University of Ghana Business School, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Alice Ayawine
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Sunyani, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bloom J, Lachman A, Gaxo E, Pillay J, Seedat S. Child, adolescent, and caregiver mental health difficulties and associated risk factors early in the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:65. [PMID: 35953841 PMCID: PMC9366799 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00499-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 in South Africa, many safety measures were implemented to protect the lives of the population. Ironically, these same safety measures have negatively impacted on the lives of children and their caregivers resulting in increased mental health problems. This study forms part of the multicountry Co-SPACE (COVID-19: Supporting Parents, Adolescents and Children during Epidemics) study that explores how families are coping during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what caregivers can do to help support their children's mental health. This paper aims to gain a better understanding of the mental health status of families specifically in South Africa in the early onset of the pandemic during restrictive lockdown measures, and identify certain risk factors that might contribute towards deteriorating mental health. Two hundred and fifty-four South African parents and carers of children and adolescents completed an online survey about their child's mental health as well as their own mental health during and post- hard lockdown in South Africa. Data collection took place over the period of the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Results showed that children experienced significantly higher mental health problems than adolescents (p = 0.016). Younger children were particularly negatively affected by lockdown and had more mental health problems than adolescents (p = 0.023); including emotional problems (p = 0.017), misconduct (p = 0.030), and hyperactivity (p = 0.001). Additionally, the presence of special educational needs/neurodevelopmental disorders (SEN/ND) was associated with more mental health problems (p = 0.001). Surprisingly, single parent households, which is another well-known risk factor showed no differences in mental health problems compared to nuclear families. There was also a reciprocal relationship between parental/carer mental health and child/adolescent mental health, with higher level of endorsement of mental health problems in children by parents/caregivers who themselves associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress (all p's < 0.001). These results highlight the dramatic impact that COVID-19 had on children, adolescents and parents in South Africa early in the pandemic, and emphasises the need for specific support structures to be implemented within the SEN/ND community, as well as for younger children and single parent households.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Bloom
- grid.11956.3a0000 0001 2214 904XDepartment of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 , Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| | - Anusha Lachman
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 , Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
| | - Ezethu Gaxo
- grid.11956.3a0000 0001 2214 904XDepartment of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 , Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| | - Jace Pillay
- grid.412988.e0000 0001 0109 131XDepartment of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- grid.11956.3a0000 0001 2214 904XDepartment of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 , Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fattahi H, Seproo FG, Fattahi A. Effective factors in people's preventive behaviors during covid-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-synthesis. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1218. [PMID: 35717144 PMCID: PMC9206506 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13621-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The overwhelming outbreak of covid-19 has forced governments all over the world to consider different measures to face this challenging situation. A vitally important element to the declining transmission of viruses is changing behaviors based on reliable information. This study was designed and implemented to identify factors affecting the preventive behaviors during the covid-19 pandemic. Methods This thematic synthesis was carried out in order to create a set of central themes that summarize all of the issues raised in the articles reviewed in this study. We used PRISMA 2020 guidelines to direct this systematic review and meta synthesis. The process of analyzing data includes three different stages: 1) creating codes; 2) production of descriptive themes; 3) and finally, the creation of analytical themes. The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used to evaluate the articles' quality. Results Five central themes emerged from 8 included articles, (1) Social factors (subthemes: environmental context, political leadership, multimedia), (2) Cultural factors (subthemes: national culture, religious culture, the family beliefs, work culture, foreign culture), (3) Economic factors (subthemes: economic situation of the individual, the government supports, infrastructures), (4) Personal factors (subthemes: people experiences, cognitive ability, physical factors, different motivational level, sense of responsibility, risk management, and self-management skills), and (5) Knowledge and Education factors (subthemes: access to information, skill training). Furthermore, SRQR items that were weakly reported were “researcher characteristics and reflexivity”, “Sampling strategy”, “Data collection methods”, “Data analysis”, and “techniques to enhance trustworthiness. Conclusion Health policymakers and other public health officials in various countries can use the factors listed to develop appropriate, evidence-based policies. They should investigate behavioral characteristics in their community based on their abilities, and then design and implement appropriate executive actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Fattahi
- Center for Primary Health Care Network Management, Deputy for Public Health, Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faeze Ghasemi Seproo
- Center for Health Human Resources Research and Studies, Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Fattahi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Campbell LS, Masquillier C, Knight L, Delport A, Sematlane N, Dube LT, Wouters E. Stay-at-Home: The Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Household Functioning and ART Adherence for People Living with HIV in Three Sub-districts of Cape Town, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1905-1922. [PMID: 34977957 PMCID: PMC8720535 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In March 2020, the South African government imposed a lockdown to control COVID-19 transmission. Lockdown may affect people living with HIV’s (PLWH) antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. Data from a cluster randomised control trial was collected from 152 PLWH in Cape Town sub-districts from October 2019–March 2020 when the lockdown halted collection. Subsequently, 83 PLWH were followed-up in June–July 2020. Random effects models were used to analyse: (1) changes between baseline and follow-up and (2) correlates of adherence during lockdown. At follow-up, there was an increase in the odds of being below the poverty line and the odds of experiencing violence decreased. Measures for well-being, household functioning, stigma and HIV competency improved. Violence, depression, food insecurity, and stigma were associated with poorer ART adherence; higher well-being scores were associated with better adherence. During lockdown, governments need to ensure financial support, access to (mental) health services, and services for those experiencing violence. Clinical Trial Number: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry, PACTR201906476052236. Registered on 24 June 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda S. Campbell
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Caroline Masquillier
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anton Delport
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Neo Sematlane
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Tanyaradzwa Dube
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Coetzee BJ, Gericke H, Human S, Stallard P, Loades M. How young people experienced COVID-19 disease containment measures in the Western Cape, South Africa: A qualitative study including the perspectives of young people, their parents, teachers and school counsellors. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:383-401. [PMID: 34904360 PMCID: PMC9300161 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the potential impact of COVID-19 disease containment measures on children's mental health and well-being, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We sought to explore this amongst young adolescents in South Africa and from the perspectives of multiple key stakeholders. METHODS We conducted 25 individual semi-structured telephonic interviews with children (n = 7, aged 12-13 years), teachers (n = 8), parents/caregivers (n = 7) and school counsellors (n = 3) from two public primary schools in the Western Cape, South Africa. Interviews were conducted between July and September 2020 and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis procures. RESULTS We generated three overarching themes: "locked down at home", "social disconnection" and "back to school." Children had varying reactions to COVID-19 and lockdown including excitement, frustration, anxiety, boredom and loneliness. Parents were anxious about teaching, and technology did not consistently provide the necessary support. Children felt disconnected from their peers at home, and at school, reconnecting with friends was obstructed by disease containment measures. All participants were concerned about children completing the academic year successfully and worried excessively about the implications of this year on their future. CONCLUSION Young people and their immediate networks, in a low- and middle-income context, described a variety of negative impacts of disease containment measures emotionally, although there was a wide variety of experiences. Children, parents, teachers and counsellors all wanted resources and support and were concerned about the longer-term impacts of disease containment measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hermine Gericke
- Department of PsychologyStellenbosch UniversityStellenboschSouth Africa
| | - Suzanne Human
- Department of PsychologyStellenbosch UniversityStellenboschSouth Africa
| | | | - Maria Loades
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li S, Liu Y, Su J, Luo X, Yang X. Can e-commerce platforms build the resilience of brick-and-mortar businesses to the COVID-19 shock? An empirical analysis in the Chinese retail industry. ELECTRONIC COMMERCE RESEARCH 2022; 23:2827-2857. [PMCID: PMC9070978 DOI: 10.1007/s10660-022-09563-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
We proposed a research model that examined the differences between the contributions of large, third-party e-commerce platforms and self-operated e-commerce platforms to businesses’ resilience to the COVID-19 shock. The difference-in-differences approach was employed to analyze a substantial sample of Chinese retailers. The study found that (1) under the baseline condition, the large, third-party e-commerce platforms built significant resilience for the brick-and-mortar businesses, (2) resource constraints induced by factor immobility weakened the contribution of large, third-party e-commerce platforms to the businesses’ resilience in regions of severe shock, and (3) the physical retailers’ self-operated EC platforms built resilience in regions of severe shock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sirui Li
- School of Economics and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- ECARES, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Economics and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Su
- Economics School of Louvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Xin Luo
- Anderson School of Management, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA
| | - Xiao Yang
- School of Economics and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Sino-Danish Center, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The Effect of Socio-Demographic Factors in Health-Seeking Behaviors among Bangladeshi Residents during the First Wave of COVID-19. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10030483. [PMID: 35326961 PMCID: PMC8949002 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10030483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Socio-demographic variability among nations and cultures highly influences health-seeking behavior (HSB) in managing endemic or pandemic diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of socio-demographic factors on HSB among Bangladeshi residents during the first wave of COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was performed with Bangladeshi residents (60% male and 40% female; age range: 10−60 years or above) from May to July 2020. Information was collected from the participants who resided in slum areas or did not have internet access through face-to-face surveys, maintaining spatial distancing and proper preventive measures. A self-reported and structured questionnaire, including socio-demographic and HSB, was undertaken, and the data was analyzed using a convenience sampling method. Finally, among the 947 participants, 20 were selected using a stratified random sampling technique for in-depth-interview (IDI). The linear regression analysis was performed to determine the influence of socio-demographic factors on HSB. Results: Only about 4.2% of respondents did not wear masks, but nearly half of the participants (46.6%) did not use hand gloves. The mean score of HSB was 9.98 (SD = 2.01) out of 16, with a correct overall rate of 62.4%. As per regression analysis, higher HSBs were found among participants who reported older age (>50 years) (9.96 ± 2.45), educated unemployed students (10.1 ± 1.95), higher education (10.5 ± 1.76), and higher-income (10.4 ± 1.59); in contrast, participants living in slum areas (8.18 ± 2.34) and whose source of income was business (8.46 ± 2.04) exhibited lower HSBs. Females, compared to men, showed better HSB in every aspect, apart from online food ordering. Qualitative data showed that the younger generation is more aware because of their access to information and persuaded the older generations to follow health-seeking protocols. The results also showed that some lower-income slum-dwellers have access to information and healthcare through their employers. IDIs also found cultural, religious, and mental-health affect people’s adherence to health-seeking guidelines and regulations. Conclusions: The findings suggest that socio-demographic factors significantly influenced HSBs during COVID-19 in the Bangladeshi population. Authorities can use these observations to systematically manage future endemics or pandemics.
Collapse
|
16
|
Sheikh S, Van Cleve W, Kumar V, Peerwani G, Aijaz S, Pathan A. Cases of acute coronary syndrome and presumed cardiac death prior to arrival at an urban tertiary care hospital in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263607. [PMID: 35113963 PMCID: PMC8812872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
A reduction in overall acute coronary syndrome (ACS) cases, increases in the severity of ACS presentation, and increased rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) have been reported from multiple countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The attributed factors include COVID-19 infection, fear of COVID-19 and resultant avoidance of health care facilities, and restrictions on mobility. Pakistan, a country with a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and challenges related to health care access, will be expected to demonstrate these same findings. Therefore, we compared ACS hospitalization, ACS severity, and patients who have already died (dead on arrival, or DOA) due to presumed OHCA at a tertiary cardiac hospital during pre-pandemic and intra-pandemic periods in Pakistan.
Methods
Standardized data elements were extracted from the charts of patients with ACS, and telephonic verbal autopsies (VA) using a validated tool were conducted for patients who were arrived DOA. As a comparison, cases during the same months prior to the COVID-19 were analyzed for respective waves. Events were counted, and proportions and frequencies are reported for each time period.
Results
A total of 4,480 ACS cases were reviewed; 1,216 cases during March-July 2019, 804 cases in the same months of 2020 (33.8% decrease); 1,304 cases in August 2019-January 2020 and 1,157 in the corresponding months of 2020 and 2021 (11.2% decrease). There was no observed change in the baseline characteristics of patients with ACS or their symptom-to-door time, and in-hospital mortality was unchanged across all time periods. There were 218 DOA cases in pre-pandemic months and 360 cases during the pandemic. The pre-pandemic rate of DOA was 12/1000 emergency patients (95% CI 10–13) compared to 22/1000 (95% CI 22–27) during the pandemic (30/1000in the 1st wave and 17/1000 during 2nd wave). On VA, CVD was found to be the major cause of death during both time periods.
Conclusion
At a cardiac hospital in Pakistan, the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a reduction in ACS hospitalization and an increased DOA rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sana Sheikh
- Department of Clinical Research Cardiology, Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
- * E-mail:
| | - Wil Van Cleve
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Emergency, Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ghazal Peerwani
- Department of Clinical Research Cardiology, Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saba Aijaz
- Department of Clinical Research Cardiology, Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Asad Pathan
- Department of Clinical Research Cardiology, Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Askari MS, Treleaven E, Ghimire D, Axinn W, Hermosilla S. COVID-19 worries, concerns and mitigation behaviours: A snapshot of Nepal during the first wave. Trop Med Int Health 2022; 27:165-173. [PMID: 34932242 PMCID: PMC8906281 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand COVID-19 worries and how they influence COVID-19 mitigation behaviours, especially in communities prior to case surges, in Nepal. METHODS Data related to COVID-19 impacts on life disruptions were collected from households in the Chitwan Valley Family Study, a 25-year community panel study, during February-April 2021. COVID-19 worry was measured by the extent of respondent concern for themselves or household members getting COVID-19 in the prior 2 weeks. 11 items examined COVID-19 mitigation behaviours. Logistic regression models assessed associations between socio-demographic characteristics and COVID-19 worry and then the influence of worry on any mitigation behaviour and behaviour type adjusting for age, education, sex, ethnicity and COVID-19 exposure, accounting for neighbourhood clustering. RESULTS Of 2,678 households with a responding adult, ages 18-88, 394 (14.7%) reported moderate-to-extreme COVID-19 worry and 1,214 (45.3%) engaged in three or more mitigation behaviours. Prevalence of mitigation behaviours was higher among those with COVID-19 worry (e.g. avoided crowds: 62.7% versus 40.5% in those with minimal worry). Respondents self-reporting COVID-19 had higher odds of worry (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13, 6.57). Odds of any mitigation behaviour were higher among those with COVID-19 worry compared to those with minimal worry (aOR: 6.19, 95% CI = 1.88, 20.35). CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 mitigation behaviours were more common in people with COVID-19 worry. To address current and potential future waves of the pandemic, public health efforts should include informational campaigns about mitigation behaviours particularly for those unconcerned with COVID-19 risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie S. Askari
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Emily Treleaven
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Dirgha Ghimire
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Institute for Social and Environmental Research–Nepal, Chitwan, Nepal
| | - William Axinn
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Learning about COVID-19 across borders: public health information and adherence among international travellers to the UK. Public Health 2022; 203:9-14. [PMID: 34999485 PMCID: PMC8626225 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Public health control measures at borders have long been central to national strategies for the prevention and containment of infectious diseases. Travel was inevitably associated with the rapid global transmission of COVID-19. In the UK, public health authorities tried to reduce the risks of travel-associated spread by providing public health information at ports of entry. This study investigates risk assessment processes, decision-making and adherence to official advice among international travellers, to provide evidence for future policy on the provision of public health information to facilitate safer international travel. STUDY DESIGN This study is a qualitative study evaluation. METHOD International air passengers arriving at the London Heathrow Airport on scheduled flights from China and Singapore were approached for interview after consenting to contact in completed surveys. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone, using two topic guides to explore views of official public health information and self-isolation. Interview transcripts were coded and analysed thematically. RESULTS Participants regarded official advice from Public Health England as adequate at the time, despite observing differences with intervention measures implemented in their countries of departure. Most participants also described adopting precautionary measures, including self-isolation and the use of face coverings that went beyond official advice, but reported adherence to guidance on contacting health authorities was more variable. Adherence to the official guidance was informed by the perceived salience of specific transmission possibilities and containment measures assessed in relation to participants' local social and institutional environments. CONCLUSION Analysis of study findings demonstrates that international air travellers' responses to public health advice constitute a proactive process of risk assessment and rationalised decision-making to guide preventive action. This process incorporates consideration of the current living situation, trust in information sources, correspondence with cultural logics and willingness to accept potential risk to self and significant others. Our findings concerning international passengers' understanding of, and compliance with, official advice and mitigation measures provide valuable evidence to inform future policy and generate recommendations on the presentation of public health information to facilitate safer international travel. Access to a central source of regularly updated official information would help minimise confusion between different national guidelines. Greater attention to the differentiated information needs of diverse groups in creating future public-facing guidance would help to minimise the uncertainties generated by the receipt of generic information.
Collapse
|
19
|
Gilles I, Le Pogam MA, Perriraz M, Bangerter A, Green EGT, Staerklé C, Krings F, Wagner-Egger P, Peytremann-Bridevaux I. Trust in Institutions and the COVID-19 Threat: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Public Perception of Official Recommendations and of Othering in Switzerland. Int J Public Health 2022; 66:1604223. [PMID: 35095384 PMCID: PMC8790817 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.1604223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To explore how perceived disease threat and trust in institutions relate to vaccination intent, perceived effectiveness of official recommendations, and to othering strategies. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of Swiss adults in July 2020. Outcome variables were vaccination intent, perceived effectiveness of official recommendations and othering strategies (labelling a given social group as responsible for the disease and distancing from it). Independent variables were perceived disease threat, trust in various institutions, perceived health-related measures, and sociodemographic variables. Linear and logistic regressions were performed. Results: The response rate was 20.2% (1518/7500). Perceived disease threat and trust in medical/scientific institutions were positively associated with vaccination intent and perceived effectiveness of official recommendations for coronavirus mitigation measures. Only disease threat was associated with a perception of effectiveness among othering strategies. Age and education levels were associated with vaccination intent. Conclusion: Reinforcing trust in medical/scientific institutions can help strengthen the perceived effectiveness of official recommendations and vaccination. It however does not prevent adherence to ineffective protecting measures such as othering strategies, where decreasing perceptions of epidemic threat appears to be more efficient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Gilles
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Annick Le Pogam
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Margaux Perriraz
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Bangerter
- Institute of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Eva G. T. Green
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Franciska Krings
- Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Murray GR, Rutland J. Prioritizing public health? Factors affecting the issuance of stay-at-home orders in response to COVID-19 in Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000112. [PMID: 36962142 PMCID: PMC10021525 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has sickened and killed millions of people globally. Conventional non-pharmaceutical interventions, particularly stay-at-home orders (SAHOs), though effective for limiting the spread of disease have significantly disrupted social and economic systems. The effects also have been dramatic in Africa, where many states are already vulnerable due to their developmental status. This study is designed to test hypotheses derived from the public health policymaking literature regarding the roles played by medical and political factors as well as social, economic, and external factors in African countries' issuance of SAHOs in response to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using event history analysis, this study analyzed these five common factors related to public health policy to determine their impact on African states' varying decisions regarding the issuance of SAHOs. The results of this analysis suggest that medical factors significantly influenced decisions as did factors external to the states, while the role of political factors was limited. Social and economic factors played no discernible role. Overall, this study suggests how African leaders prioritized competing factors in the early stages of a public health crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregg R. Murray
- Department of Social Sciences, Political Science, Center for Bioethics and Health Policy, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Joshua Rutland
- Department of Social Sciences, MAISS, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Stewart R, Madonsela A, Tshabalala N, Etale L, Theunissen N. The importance of social media users’ responses in tackling digital COVID-19 misinformation in Africa. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221085070. [PMID: 35321021 PMCID: PMC8935564 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221085070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Digital technologies present both an opportunity and a threat for advancing public health. At a time of pandemic, social media has become a tool for the rapid spread of misinformation. Mitigating the impacts of misinformation is particularly acute across Africa, where WhatsApp and other forms of social media dominate, and where the dual threats of misinformation and COVID-19 threaten lives and livelihoods. Given the scale of the problem within Africa, we set out to understand (i) the potential harm that misinformation causes, (ii) the available evidence on how to mitigate that misinformation and (iii) how user responses to misinformation shape the potential for those mitigating strategies to reduce the risk of harm. Methods We undertook a multi-method study, combining a rapid review of the research evidence with a survey of WhatsApp users across Africa. Results We identified 87 studies for inclusion in our review and had 286 survey respondents from 17 African countries. Our findings show the considerable harms caused by public health misinformation in Africa and the lack of evidence for or against strategies to mitigate against such harms. Furthermore, they highlight how social media users’ responses to public health misinformation can mitigate and exacerbate potential harms. Understanding the ways in which social media users respond to misinformation sheds light on potential mitigation strategies. Conclusions Public health practitioners who utilise digital health approaches must not underestimate the importance of considering the role of social media in the circulation of misinformation, nor of the responses of social media users in shaping attempts to mitigate against the harms of such misinformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Stewart
- Africa Centre for Evidence, University of Johannesburg, Research Village, Bunting Road Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Social Science Research Unit, University College London Institute of Education, London, UK
| | - Andile Madonsela
- Africa Centre for Evidence, University of Johannesburg, Research Village, Bunting Road Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Centre for Evidence NPC, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nkululeko Tshabalala
- Africa Centre for Evidence, University of Johannesburg, Research Village, Bunting Road Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Linda Etale
- Africa Centre for Evidence, University of Johannesburg, Research Village, Bunting Road Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
- International Rice Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
El Khamlichi S, Maurady A, Sedqui A. Comparative study of COVID-19 situation between lower-middle-income countries in the eastern Mediterranean region. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2021; 12:165-176. [PMID: 34660189 PMCID: PMC8500844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The COVID-19 health crisis has created a disastrous situation worldwide. All nations are facing this pandemic, including eastern Mediterranean countries. The aim of this study is to assess and compare the impact of this devastating pandemic on lower-middle-income countries in the eastern Mediterranean region, identify the leading causes of its spread, examine the various risk factors associated with its virulence in each country, and provide effective intervention strategies to contain it. Methods Using the analysis of variance method, this research compares infection, case fatality, recovery, and positivity rates in seven countries, namely, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Djibouti, Pakistan, Sudan, and Palestine. It focuses on their daily reported confirmed incidents, recoveries, deaths, and tests. Results The results highlight the significant differences in the effect of COVID-19 in these countries. Regarding the infection rate, Djibouti and Palestine have the highest rate, which could be related to the high poverty and the young population in these countries. However, it has been demonstrated that Tunisia, Djibouti, Egypt, and Sudan have the greatest case fatality rate in this comparison, which might be attributed to the relatively old population in Tunisia, the co-morbidity in Egypt, and the deficiency of the healthcare system in Djibouti and Sudan. Furthermore, the comparison of the recovery rate in these countries indicates that Djibouti has the highest recovery rate, which might be due to the young population. Conclusion This work allows us to come up with recommendations that could support policymakers to act efficiently in containing the pandemic flare-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sokaina El Khamlichi
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Amal Maurady
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tangier, Morocco.,Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Abdelfettah Sedqui
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tangier, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fourie MM, Verwoerd WJ. COVID-19 as Natural Intervention: Guilt and Perceived Historical Privilege Contributes to Structural Reform Under Conditions of Crisis. AFFECTIVE SCIENCE 2021; 3:34-45. [PMID: 34608456 PMCID: PMC8481112 DOI: 10.1007/s42761-021-00073-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has been described as an unmasking of persistent racialized inequalities linked to South Africa’s oppressive past. However, such observations lack empirical support. Here we examined whether COVID-19 lockdown conditions encouraged greater perceptions of continuing structural racism together with motivational and behavioral support for social justice, and whether guilt or empathic concern undergirded such responses. A national sample of White South Africans’ data suggests that the pandemic served as a natural intervention, fostering greater acknowledgement of structural racism and support for redress through increased awareness of historical privilege and guilt in response to Black hardship. Guilt furthermore predicted a social justice motivation in relief efforts, whereas empathic concern predicted only charity motivation. These results suggest that “White guilt” is more consequential than empathic concern in contributing to structural reform but would require longer-term processes to support the translation of its motivational push into sustainable contributions to social justice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melike M Fourie
- Studies in Historical Trauma and Transformation, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa
| | - Wilhelm J Verwoerd
- Studies in Historical Trauma and Transformation, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The paper aims to provide an overview of the psychological and behavioural impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on variations in behavioural response in different geographical areas due to the existence of different social-cultural contexts. RECENT FINDINGS Whilst anxiety, depression and economic stressors are common findings worldwide, specific behavioural responses are heavily influenced by government stances, misinformation, conspiratorialism and competing demands of resource scarcity. This has led to very different understandings of the pandemic even in geographically close areas, and more so when comparing disparate regions such as Africa, South America and Europe. The paper also comments on the absence of robust evidence regarding increases of suicidality and violence on a global level, whilst noting evidence certainly exists in specific regions. SUMMARY The psychological and behavioural impact of COVID is heavily influenced by the local lens. Beyond a very broad brush approaches, expected behaviours from one area cannot easily be extrapolated to others. Where possible, clinicians should be guided by local data, ideally placing expectations of responses in a cultural context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kendrick
- Department of Psychiatry, Bunbury Hospital, Western Australian Country Health Service, Upper South West Mental Health Team, Bunbury
| | - Mohan Isaac
- University of Western Australia, Department of Psychiatry, Fremantle Hospital, South Metropolitan Health Service, Fremantle
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rahi M, Le Pluart D, Beaudet A, Ismaël S, Parisey M, Poey N, Tarhini H, Lescure FX, Yazdanpanah Y, Deconinck L. Sociodemographic characteristics and transmission risk factors in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 before and during the lockdown in France. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:812. [PMID: 34388990 PMCID: PMC8361240 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06419-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The efficacy of lockdown in containing the COVID-19 pandemic has been reported in different studies. However, the impact on sociodemographic characteristics of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to describe the changes in sociodemographic characteristics of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and to compare the transmission risk factors of COVID-19 before and during lockdown in France. Methods An observational retrospective study was conducted in a University Hospital in Paris, France. Data from patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in the Infectious Diseases Department between February 26 and May 11, 2020 were collected. The study population was divided into 2 groups: group A of patients infected before lockdown, and group B of patients infected during lockdown, considering a maximum incubation period of 14 days. Sociodemographic characteristics and transmission risk factors were compared between the 2 groups using Student’s t-test for continuous variables and Chi-2 test or Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Results Three hundred eighty-three patients were included in the study, 305 (79.6%) in group A and 78 (20.4%) in group B. Patients in group A were significantly younger (60.0 versus (vs) 66.5 years (p = 0.03)). The professionally active population was larger in group A (44.3% vs 24.4%). There were significantly more non-French-speaking people in group B (16.7% vs 6.6%, p < 0.01). Most patients from group A had individual accommodation (92.8% vs 74.4%, p < 0.01). Contact with a relative was the main transmission risk factor in both groups (24.6% vs 33.3%, p = 0.16). Recent travel and large gathering were found only in group A. The proportion of people living in disadvantaged conditions, such as homeless people or people living in social housing, was significantly higher in group B (11.5% vs 4.3%, p = 0.03) as was the proportion of institutionalized individuals (14.1% vs 3.0%, p < 0.01). Conclusions In this study conducted in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in Paris, France, the likelihood of being infected despite the lockdown was higher for people who do not speak French, live in social housing, are homeless or institutionalized. Targeted measures have to be implemented to protect these populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayda Rahi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Diane Le Pluart
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Beaudet
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Ismaël
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Marion Parisey
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Nora Poey
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Hassan Tarhini
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - François-Xavier Lescure
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Yazdan Yazdanpanah
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France.
| | - Laurène Deconinck
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department
- , Bichat - Claude-Bernard University Hospital, AP-HP, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Murray GR, Jilani-Hyler N. Identifying factors associated with the issuance of coronavirus-related stay-at-home orders in the Middle East and North Africa Region. WORLD MEDICAL & HEALTH POLICY 2021; 13:477-502. [PMID: 34226851 PMCID: PMC8242398 DOI: 10.1002/wmh3.444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has not spared the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. MENA is one of the most politically, socially, and economically heterogeneous regions in the world, a characteristic reflected in its governments' responses to COVID-19. About two-thirds of these governments issued coronavirus-related stay-at-home orders (SAHOs), one of the most effective tools public health officials have for slowing the spread of infectious diseases. While SAHOs are very effective in terms of countering infectious diseases, they are extremely disruptive in nonhealth domains. The objective of this study is to identify reliable factors related to health care policy making that shaped the decisions of MENA governments to issue a SAHO or not in response to COVID-19. The results identify specific political, social, and medical factors that played important roles and provide a look at early government responses to a global health crisis in a heterogeneous region of the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregg R Murray
- Augusta University Augusta Georgia USA.,Augusta University Center for Bioethics and Health Policy Augusta Georgia USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Radfar SR, De Jong CAJ, Farhoudian A, Ebrahimi M, Rafei P, Vahidi M, Yunesian M, Kouimtsidis C, Arunogiri S, Massah O, Deylamizadeh A, Brady KT, Busse A, Potenza MN, Ekhtiari H, Baldacchino AM. Reorganization of Substance Use Treatment and Harm Reduction Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Global Survey. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:639393. [PMID: 34025471 PMCID: PMC8135096 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.639393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted people with substance use disorders (SUDs) worldwide, and healthcare systems have reorganized their services in response to the pandemic. Methods: One week after the announcement of the COVID-19 as a pandemic, in a global survey, 177 addiction medicine professionals described COVID-19-related health responses in their own 77 countries in terms of SUD treatment and harm reduction services. The health responses were categorized around (1) managerial measures and systems, (2) logistics, (3) service providers, and (4) vulnerable groups. Results: Respondents from over 88% of countries reported that core medical and psychiatric care for SUDs had continued; however, only 56% of countries reported having had any business continuity plan, and 37.5% of countries reported shortages of methadone or buprenorphine supplies. Participants of 41% of countries reported partial discontinuation of harm-reduction services such as needle and syringe programs and condom distribution. Fifty-seven percent of overdose prevention interventions and 81% of outreach services were also negatively impacted. Conclusions: Participants reported that SUD treatment and harm-reduction services had been significantly impacted globally early during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on our findings, we highlight several issues and complications resulting from the pandemic concerning people with SUDs that should be tackled more efficiently during the future waves or similar pandemics. The issues and potential strategies comprise the following: (1) helping policymakers to generate business continuity plans, (2) maintaining the use of evidence-based interventions for people with SUDs, (3) being prepared for adequate medication supplies, (4) integrating harm reduction programs with other treatment modalities, and (5) having specific considerations for vulnerable groups such as immigrants and refugees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Ramin Radfar
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Integrated Substance Abuse Programs Department, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - Ali Farhoudian
- Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ebrahimi
- Materials and Energy Research Center, Tehran, Iran
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parnian Rafei
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Vahidi
- Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christos Kouimtsidis
- Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leatherhead, United Kingdom
| | | | - Omid Massah
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Anja Busse
- Staff Member of Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation Section, Drug Prevention and Health Branch, Division for Operations, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling and Connecticut Mental Health Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhang P. Study on the Experience of Public Health System Construction in China's COVID-19 Prevention. Front Public Health 2021; 9:610824. [PMID: 33981659 PMCID: PMC8107211 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.610824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: China's experience in the process of COVID-19 prevention provides a reference for other countries in the world. This article studied the experience of public health system construction in China's COVID-19 prevention. Methods: Based on literature review and theoretical analysis, this paper constructs a theoretical framework of national public health system construction in health crisis. Based on this theoretical framework, combined with the policies and measures formulated by the Chinese government in the process of COVID-19 prevention, this article evaluate the advantages and deficiencies of China's public health system construction in response to COVID-19. Results: The Chinese government ensured the adequate supply of health resources, improved people's ability to pay medical expenses, and adopted advanced public health propaganda methods based on the Internet to help people grasp the basic information and development trend of COVID-19 in the process of COVID-19 prevention. At the same time, the utilization efficiency of health resources was low in China, people's ability to pay for medical expenses was unequal, and the disclosure of virus information in the early stage of the outbreak of COVID-19 is not timely. Conclusions: Other countries can learn from the advantages of China's public health system construction and avoid China's deficiencies in the process of public health system construction, which will help them improve the efficiency of COVID-19 prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhang
- School of Labor and Human Resources, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pinchoff J, Kraus-Perrotta C, Austrian K, Tidwell JB, Abuya T, Mwanga D, Kangwana B, Ochako R, Muluve E, Mbushi F, Nzioki M, Ngo TD. Mobility Patterns During COVID-19 Travel Restrictions in Nairobi Urban Informal Settlements: Who Is Leaving Home and Why. J Urban Health 2021; 98:211-221. [PMID: 33533010 PMCID: PMC7852483 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00507-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Nairobi's urban slums are ill equipped to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) due to high population density, multigenerational families in poorly ventilated informal housing, and poor sanitation. Physical distancing policies, curfews, and a citywide lockdown were implemented in March and April 2020 resulting in sharp decreases in movement across the city. However, most people cannot afford to stay home completely (e.g., leaving daily to fetch water). If still employed, they may need to travel longer distances for work, potentially exposing them COVID-19 or contributing to its spread. We conducted a household survey across five urban slums to describe factors associated with mobility in the previous 24 h. A total of 1695 adults were interviewed, 63% female. Of these, most reported neighborhood mobility within their informal settlement (54%), 19% stayed home completely, and 27% reported long-distance mobility outside their informal settlement, mainly for work. In adjusted multinomial regression models, women were 58% more likely than men to stay home (relative risk ratio (RRR): 1.58, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16, 2.14) and women were 60% less likely than men to report citywide mobility (RRR: 0.40; 95% CI 0.31, 0.52). Individuals in the wealthiest quintile, particularly younger women, were most likely to not leave home at all. Those who reported citywide travel were less likely to have lost employment (RRR: 0.49; 95% CI 0.38, 0.65) and were less likely to avoid public transportation (RRR: 0.30; 95% CI 0.23, 0.39). Employment and job hunting were the main reasons for traveling outside of the slum; less than 20% report other reasons. Our findings suggest that slum residents who retain their employment are traveling larger distances across Nairobi, using public transportation, and are more likely to be male; this travel may put them at higher risk of COVID-19 infection but is necessary to maintain income. Steps to protect workers from COVID-19 both in the workplace and while in transit (including masks, hand sanitizer stations, and reduced capacity on public transportation) are critical as economic insecurity in the city increases due to COVID-19 mitigation measures. Workers must be able to commute and maintain employment to not be driven further into poverty. Additionally, to protect the majority of individuals who are only travelling locally within their settlement, mitigation measures such as making masks and handwashing stations accessible within informal settlements must also be implemented, with special attention to the burden placed on women.
Collapse
|
30
|
Widayati A. Knowledge, Perceptions, and Awareness Related to COVID-19 Among the Indonesian Adults During the Outbreak's Escalation Period: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia. Asia Pac J Public Health 2021; 33:448-450. [PMID: 33729018 DOI: 10.1177/10105395211001655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aris Widayati
- Sanata Dharma University, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Vecino-Ortiz AI, Villanueva Congote J, Zapata Bedoya S, Cucunuba ZM. Impact of contact tracing on COVID-19 mortality: An impact evaluation using surveillance data from Colombia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246987. [PMID: 33661926 PMCID: PMC7932167 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contact tracing is a crucial part of the public health surveillance toolkit. However, it is labor-intensive and costly to carry it out. Some countries have faced challenges implementing contact tracing, and no impact evaluations using empirical data have assessed its impact on COVID-19 mortality. This study assesses the impact of contact tracing in a middle-income country, providing data to support the expansion and optimization of contact tracing strategies to improve infection control. METHODS We obtained publicly available data on all confirmed COVID-19 cases in Colombia between March 2 and June 16, 2020. (N = 54,931 cases over 135 days of observation). As suggested by WHO guidelines, we proxied contact tracing performance as the proportion of cases identified through contact tracing out of all cases identified. We calculated the daily proportion of cases identified through contact tracing across 37 geographical units (32 departments and five districts). Further, we used a sequential log-log fixed-effects model to estimate the 21-days, 28-days, 42-days, and 56-days lagged impact of the proportion of cases identified through contact tracing on daily COVID-19 mortality. Both the proportion of cases identified through contact tracing and the daily number of COVID-19 deaths are smoothed using 7-day moving averages. Models control for the prevalence of active cases, second-degree polynomials, and mobility indices. Robustness checks to include supply-side variables were performed. RESULTS We found that a 10 percent increase in the proportion of cases identified through contact tracing is related to COVID-19 mortality reductions between 0.8% and 3.4%. Our models explain between 47%-70% of the variance in mortality. Results are robust to changes of specification and inclusion of supply-side variables. CONCLUSION Contact tracing is instrumental in containing infectious diseases. Its prioritization as a surveillance strategy will substantially impact reducing deaths while minimizing the impact on the fragile economic systems of lower and middle-income countries. This study provides lessons for other LMIC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andres I. Vecino-Ortiz
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | | | - Silvana Zapata Bedoya
- Planning Department, Government of the Department of Antioquia in Colombia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Zulma M. Cucunuba
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Trnka S, Long NJ, Aikman PJ, Appleton NS, Davies SG, Deckert A, Fehoko E, Holroyd E, Jivraj N, Laws M, Martin-Anatias N, Roguski M, Simpson N, Sterling R, Tunufa’i L. Negotiating risks and responsibilities during lockdown: ethical reasoning and affective experience in Aotearoa New Zealand. J R Soc N Z 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/03036758.2020.1865417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Trnka
- Anthropology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nicholas J. Long
- Department of Anthropology, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | | | | | - Sharyn Graham Davies
- School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Herb Feith Indonesia Engagement Centre, Monash University, Australia
| | - Antje Deckert
- School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Edmond Fehoko
- School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Eleanor Holroyd
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Naseem Jivraj
- Department of Anthropology, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Megan Laws
- Department of Anthropology, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Nelly Martin-Anatias
- School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Nikita Simpson
- Department of Anthropology, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Rogena Sterling
- Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Laumua Tunufa’i
- School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Carlitz RD, Makhura MN. Life under lockdown: Illustrating tradeoffs in South Africa's response to COVID-19. WORLD DEVELOPMENT 2021; 137:105168. [PMID: 32895596 PMCID: PMC7455114 DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2020.105168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This research note sheds light on the first three months of the COVID-19 outbreak in South Africa, where the virus has spread faster than anywhere else in the region. At the same time, South Africa has been recognized globally for its swift and efficient early response. We consider the impact of this response on different segments of the population, looking at changes in mobility by province to highlight variation in the willingness and ability of different subsets of the population to comply with lockdown orders. Using anonymized mobile phone data, we show that South Africans in all provinces reduced their mobility substantially in response to the government's lockdown orders. Statistical regression analysis shows that such mobility reductions are significantly and negatively associated with COVID-19 growth rates two weeks later. These findings add an important perspective to the emerging literature on the efficacy of shelter-in-place orders, which to date is dominated by studies of the United States. We show that people were particularly willing and able to act in the provinces hit hardest by the pandemic in its initial stages. At the same time, compliance with lockdown orders presented a greater challenge among rural populations and others with more precarious livelihoods. By reflecting on South Africa's inequality profile and results of a recent survey, we demonstrate how the country's response may deepen preexisting divides. This cautionary tale is relevant beyond South Africa, as much of the continent - and the world - grapples with similar tradeoffs. Along with measures to contain the spread of disease, governments and other development focused organizations should seriously consider how to offset the costs faced by already marginalized populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth D Carlitz
- Department of Political Science, Tulane University, United States
| | - Moraka N Makhura
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Extension & Rural Development, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ferraz D, Mariano EB, Manzine PR, Moralles HF, Morceiro PC, Torres BG, de Almeida MR, Soares de Mello JC, Rebelatto DADN. COVID Health Structure Index: The Vulnerability of Brazilian Microregions. SOCIAL INDICATORS RESEARCH 2021; 158:197-215. [PMID: 33967373 PMCID: PMC8096891 DOI: 10.1007/s11205-021-02699-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Many developing countries have highly unequal health systems across their regions. The pandemic of COVID-19 brought an additional challenge, as hospital structures equipped with doctors, intensive care units and respirators are not available to a sufficient extent in all regions. Using Data Envelopment Analysis, we create a COVID Index to verify whether the hospital structures in 543 Brazilian microregions are adequate to deal with COVID-19 and to verify whether public policies were implemented in the right direction. The results indicate that hospital structures in the poorest microregions were the most vulnerable, although the peak of COVID-19 occurred in the richest microregions (Sao Paulo). The Southeast states could relocate hospital resources or even patients between their regions. The relocation was not possible in many states in the Northeast, as the health system poorly assisted the interior of these states. These findings reveal that the heterogeneity of microregions' hospital structures follows the patterns of socioeconomic inequalities. We conclude that it is easier for the wealthier regions to reallocate hospital resources internally than for the poorest regions. By using the COVID Index, policymakers and hospital managers have straightforward information to decide which regions must receive new investments and reallocate underutilized resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Ferraz
- Department of Innovation Economics, University of Hohenheim, Wollgrasweg 23, 2nd floor, Room 520i, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Economics, Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP), Rua do Catete 166 Centro, Mariana/MG, 35420-000 Brazil
- Department of Production Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Núcleo Residencial Presidente Geisel, Avenida Engenheiro Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01, Bauru, 17033360 Brazil
| | - Enzo Barberio Mariano
- Department of Production Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Núcleo Residencial Presidente Geisel, Avenida Engenheiro Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01, Bauru, 17033360 Brazil
| | - Patricia Regina Manzine
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Rod. Washington Luiz, s/n, São Carlos, SP 13565-905 Brazil
| | - Herick Fernando Moralles
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Rod. Washington Luiz, s/n, São Carlos, SP 13565-905 Brazil
| | - Paulo César Morceiro
- DST/NRF South African Chair in Industrial Development, College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, 31 Henley Road, Aucklandpark, Johannesburg, 2092 South Africa
| | - Bruno Guimarães Torres
- Department of Production Engineering, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Rua Passo da Pátria, Campus Praia Vermelha, Bloco D - sala 309, Niterói, 24210-240 Brazil
| | - Mariana Rodrigues de Almeida
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Av. Senador Salgado Filho, n° 3000, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova - Centro de Tecnologia, Natal, 59078-970 Brazil
| | - João Carlos Soares de Mello
- Department of Production Engineering, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Rua Passo da Pátria, Campus Praia Vermelha, Bloco D - sala 309, Niterói, 24210-240 Brazil
| | - Daisy Aparecida do Nascimento Rebelatto
- Department of Production Engineering, University of São Paulo (EESC/USP), Av. Trab. São Carlense, 400 - Parque Arnold Schimidt, São Carlos, 13566-590 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Okereke M, Ukor NA, Ngaruiya LM, Mwansa C, Alhaj SM, Ogunkola IO, Jaber HM, Isa MA, Ekpenyong A, Lucero-Prisno DE. COVID-19 Misinformation and Infodemic in Rural Africa. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 104:453-456. [PMID: 33382028 PMCID: PMC7866344 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The world has witnessed rapid advancement and changes since the COVID-19 pandemic emerged in Wuhan, China. The significant changes experienced during these times remain unprecedented. The African continent has initiated significant responses to curb the spread of the pandemic. However, there is an increasing concern that rural Africa is facing serious challenges in their responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to the uncertainty if the populations are detached from or in synch with information on COVID-19. The findings reported here suggest that rural Africa is burdened with misinformation and infodemic regarding COVID-19 due to widespread misconceptions and anecdotal reports. It is, therefore, necessary to engage with community leaders to provide awareness campaigns in rural communities to ensure access to reliable information issued by local and international health authorities. It is pertinent to set up avenues that improve health literacy in communities in rural Africa as it is a major determinant of information assimilation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melody Okereke
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Nelson Ashinedu Ukor
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | | | - Chikwe Mwansa
- Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, The Copperbelt University, Kitwe, Zambia
| | | | | | - Hadi Mohammed Jaber
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Mashkur Abdulhamid Isa
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Aniekan Ekpenyong
- Global Health Policy Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburg, United Kingdom
| | - Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Reinders S, Alva A, Huicho L, Blas MM. Indigenous communities' responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and consequences for maternal and neonatal health in remote Peruvian Amazon: a qualitative study based on routine programme supervision. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e044197. [PMID: 33376182 PMCID: PMC7778739 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore indigenous communities' responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences for maternal and neonatal health (MNH) care in the Peruvian Amazon. METHODS Mamás del Río is a community-based, MNH programme with comprehensive supervision covering monthly meetings with community health workers (CHW), community leaders and health facilities. With the onset of the lockdown, supervisors made telephone calls to discuss measures against COVID-19, governmental support, CHW activities in communities and provision of MNH care and COVID-19 preparedness at facilities. As part of the programme's ongoing mixed methods evaluation, we analysed written summaries of supervisor calls collected during the first 2 months of Peru's lockdown. RESULTS Between March and May 2020, supervisors held two rounds of calls with CHWs and leaders of 68 communities and staff from 17 facilities. Most communities banned entry of foreigners, but about half tolerated residents travelling to regional towns for trade and social support. While social events were forbidden, strict home isolation was only practised in a third of communities as conflicting with daily routine. By the end of April, first clusters of suspected cases were reported in communities. COVID-19 test kits, training and medical face masks were not available in most rural facilities. Six out of seven facilities suspended routine antenatal and postnatal consultations while two-thirds of CHWs resumed home visits to pregnant women and newborns. CONCLUSIONS Home isolation was hardly feasible in the rural Amazon context and community isolation was undermined by lack of external supplies and social support. With sustained community transmission, promotion of basic hygiene and mask use becomes essential. To avoid devastating effects on MNH, routine services at facilities need to be urgently re-established alongside COVID-19 preparedness plans. Community-based MNH programmes could offset detrimental indirect effects of the pandemic and provide an opportunity for local COVID-19 prevention and containment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Reinders
- Epidemiology, STD and HIV Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Angela Alva
- Epidemiology, STD and HIV Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Luis Huicho
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Materna e Infantil, Centro de Investigación para el Desarrollo Integral y Sostenible, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Magaly M Blas
- Epidemiology, STD and HIV Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Jones DL, Baluja MQ, Graham DW, Corbishley A, McDonald JE, Malham SK, Hillary LS, Connor TR, Gaze WH, Moura IB, Wilcox MH, Farkas K. Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine and its potential role in person-to-person transmission and the environment-based spread of COVID-19. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 749:141364. [PMID: 32836117 PMCID: PMC7836549 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The recent detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in feces has led to speculation that it can be transmitted via the fecal-oral/ocular route. This review aims to critically evaluate the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, the quantity and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine, and whether these pose an infection risk in sanitary settings, sewage networks, wastewater treatment plants, and the wider environment (e.g. rivers, lakes and marine waters). A review of 48 independent studies revealed that severe GI dysfunction is only evident in a small number of COVID-19 cases, with 11 ± 2% exhibiting diarrhea and 12 ± 3% exhibiting vomiting and nausea. In addition to these cases, SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in feces from some asymptomatic, mildly- and pre-symptomatic individuals. Fecal shedding of the virus peaks in the symptomatic period and can persist for several weeks, but with declining abundances in the post-symptomatic phase. SARS-CoV-2 RNA is occasionally detected in urine, but reports in fecal samples are more frequent. The abundance of the virus genetic material in both urine (ca. 102-105 gc/ml) and feces (ca. 102-107 gc/ml) is much lower than in nasopharyngeal fluids (ca. 105-1011 gc/ml). There is strong evidence of multiplication of SARS-CoV-2 in the gut and infectious virus has occasionally been recovered from both urine and stool samples. The level and infectious capability of SARS-CoV-2 in vomit remain unknown. In comparison to enteric viruses transmitted via the fecal-oral route (e.g. norovirus, adenovirus), the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 being transmitted via feces or urine appears much lower due to the lower relative amounts of virus present in feces/urine. The biggest risk of transmission will occur in clinical and care home settings where secondary handling of people and urine/fecal matter occurs. In addition, while SARS-CoV-2 RNA genetic material can be detected by in wastewater, this signal is greatly reduced by conventional treatment. Our analysis also suggests the likelihood of infection due to contact with sewage-contaminated water (e.g. swimming, surfing, angling) or food (e.g. salads, shellfish) is extremely low or negligible based on very low predicted abundances and limited environmental survival of SARS-CoV-2. These conclusions are corroborated by the fact that tens of million cases of COVID-19 have occurred globally, but exposure to feces or wastewater has never been implicated as a transmission vector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David L Jones
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | | | - David W Graham
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Alexander Corbishley
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Campus Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - James E McDonald
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Shelagh K Malham
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| | - Luke S Hillary
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Thomas R Connor
- Organisms and Environment Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK; Public Health Wales, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK
| | - William H Gaze
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, ESI, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Ines B Moura
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Mark H Wilcox
- Healthcare Associated Infections Research Group, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kata Farkas
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Jones DL, Baluja MQ, Graham DW, Corbishley A, McDonald JE, Malham SK, Hillary LS, Connor TR, Gaze WH, Moura IB, Wilcox MH, Farkas K. Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine and its potential role in person-to-person transmission and the environment-based spread of COVID-19. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 749:141364. [PMID: 32836117 DOI: 10.20944/preprints202007.0471.v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The recent detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in feces has led to speculation that it can be transmitted via the fecal-oral/ocular route. This review aims to critically evaluate the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, the quantity and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine, and whether these pose an infection risk in sanitary settings, sewage networks, wastewater treatment plants, and the wider environment (e.g. rivers, lakes and marine waters). A review of 48 independent studies revealed that severe GI dysfunction is only evident in a small number of COVID-19 cases, with 11 ± 2% exhibiting diarrhea and 12 ± 3% exhibiting vomiting and nausea. In addition to these cases, SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in feces from some asymptomatic, mildly- and pre-symptomatic individuals. Fecal shedding of the virus peaks in the symptomatic period and can persist for several weeks, but with declining abundances in the post-symptomatic phase. SARS-CoV-2 RNA is occasionally detected in urine, but reports in fecal samples are more frequent. The abundance of the virus genetic material in both urine (ca. 102-105 gc/ml) and feces (ca. 102-107 gc/ml) is much lower than in nasopharyngeal fluids (ca. 105-1011 gc/ml). There is strong evidence of multiplication of SARS-CoV-2 in the gut and infectious virus has occasionally been recovered from both urine and stool samples. The level and infectious capability of SARS-CoV-2 in vomit remain unknown. In comparison to enteric viruses transmitted via the fecal-oral route (e.g. norovirus, adenovirus), the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 being transmitted via feces or urine appears much lower due to the lower relative amounts of virus present in feces/urine. The biggest risk of transmission will occur in clinical and care home settings where secondary handling of people and urine/fecal matter occurs. In addition, while SARS-CoV-2 RNA genetic material can be detected by in wastewater, this signal is greatly reduced by conventional treatment. Our analysis also suggests the likelihood of infection due to contact with sewage-contaminated water (e.g. swimming, surfing, angling) or food (e.g. salads, shellfish) is extremely low or negligible based on very low predicted abundances and limited environmental survival of SARS-CoV-2. These conclusions are corroborated by the fact that tens of million cases of COVID-19 have occurred globally, but exposure to feces or wastewater has never been implicated as a transmission vector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David L Jones
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | | | - David W Graham
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Alexander Corbishley
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Campus Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - James E McDonald
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Shelagh K Malham
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| | - Luke S Hillary
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Thomas R Connor
- Organisms and Environment Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK; Public Health Wales, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK
| | - William H Gaze
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, ESI, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Ines B Moura
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Mark H Wilcox
- Healthcare Associated Infections Research Group, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kata Farkas
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Jones DL, Baluja MQ, Graham DW, Corbishley A, McDonald JE, Malham SK, Hillary LS, Connor TR, Gaze WH, Moura IB, Wilcox MH, Farkas K. Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine and its potential role in person-to-person transmission and the environment-based spread of COVID-19. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020. [PMID: 32836117 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141364pmid-32836117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The recent detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in feces has led to speculation that it can be transmitted via the fecal-oral/ocular route. This review aims to critically evaluate the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, the quantity and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in feces and urine, and whether these pose an infection risk in sanitary settings, sewage networks, wastewater treatment plants, and the wider environment (e.g. rivers, lakes and marine waters). A review of 48 independent studies revealed that severe GI dysfunction is only evident in a small number of COVID-19 cases, with 11 ± 2% exhibiting diarrhea and 12 ± 3% exhibiting vomiting and nausea. In addition to these cases, SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in feces from some asymptomatic, mildly- and pre-symptomatic individuals. Fecal shedding of the virus peaks in the symptomatic period and can persist for several weeks, but with declining abundances in the post-symptomatic phase. SARS-CoV-2 RNA is occasionally detected in urine, but reports in fecal samples are more frequent. The abundance of the virus genetic material in both urine (ca. 102-105 gc/ml) and feces (ca. 102-107 gc/ml) is much lower than in nasopharyngeal fluids (ca. 105-1011 gc/ml). There is strong evidence of multiplication of SARS-CoV-2 in the gut and infectious virus has occasionally been recovered from both urine and stool samples. The level and infectious capability of SARS-CoV-2 in vomit remain unknown. In comparison to enteric viruses transmitted via the fecal-oral route (e.g. norovirus, adenovirus), the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 being transmitted via feces or urine appears much lower due to the lower relative amounts of virus present in feces/urine. The biggest risk of transmission will occur in clinical and care home settings where secondary handling of people and urine/fecal matter occurs. In addition, while SARS-CoV-2 RNA genetic material can be detected by in wastewater, this signal is greatly reduced by conventional treatment. Our analysis also suggests the likelihood of infection due to contact with sewage-contaminated water (e.g. swimming, surfing, angling) or food (e.g. salads, shellfish) is extremely low or negligible based on very low predicted abundances and limited environmental survival of SARS-CoV-2. These conclusions are corroborated by the fact that tens of million cases of COVID-19 have occurred globally, but exposure to feces or wastewater has never been implicated as a transmission vector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David L Jones
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | | | - David W Graham
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Alexander Corbishley
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Campus Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - James E McDonald
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Shelagh K Malham
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| | - Luke S Hillary
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Thomas R Connor
- Organisms and Environment Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK; Public Health Wales, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK
| | - William H Gaze
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, ESI, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Ines B Moura
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Mark H Wilcox
- Healthcare Associated Infections Research Group, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kata Farkas
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK; School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Brugarolas M, Martínez-Carrasco L, Rabadán A, Bernabéu R. Innovation Strategies of the Spanish Agri-Food Sector in Response to the Black Swan COVID-19 Pandemic. Foods 2020; 9:foods9121821. [PMID: 33302384 PMCID: PMC7762556 DOI: 10.3390/foods9121821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Health, financial, and social crises cause variations in the buying behaviour of food consumers as well as in the value they assign to food attributes and the place of purchase, leading to consumers with profiles that are more susceptible to these changes than others. Thus, it was observed that 61.4% of consumers modified their buying behaviour at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with those who modified it the most being the people who stockpiled the most food and went panic buying more often. This has made it possible to establish the profile of different significant consumer segments, and as a response, food production/distribution companies can implement different innovative strategies aimed at decreasing the impact of stockpiling and, therefore, the shortage of food. The possible strategies that companies can put into effect are creating a stock of non-perishable foods, increasing production capabilities in a sustainable way and, especially in light of the results obtained, boost the online sale and distribution of foods, with the goal of decreasing the amount of people in shops (which decreases the spreading of the pandemic and favours health) and preventing consumers from observing possible circumstantial shortages that would only encourage stockpiling and panic buying, even among consumers who have not changed their buying behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Brugarolas
- Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela (EPSO), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avenida de la Universidad de Elche s/n, 03202 Elche, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Martínez-Carrasco
- Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela (EPSO), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avenida de la Universidad de Elche s/n, 03202 Elche, Spain;
| | - Adrián Rabadán
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos y de Montes (ETSIAM), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (A.R.); (R.B.)
| | - Rodolfo Bernabéu
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos y de Montes (ETSIAM), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (A.R.); (R.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Akanda AAM, Ahmed R. How successful Bangladesh is in controlling the coronavirus pandemic? BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE 2020; 44:196. [PMID: 33250630 PMCID: PMC7682689 DOI: 10.1186/s42269-020-00451-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reported number of COVID-19 patients increases on average along with the increased laboratory tests in Bangladesh implying a possibility of the spread of deadly coronavirus being out of control. Contrary to that, the government claims that it controls the spread of coronavirus through undertaking stringent policy measures. This different scenario leads this study on whether these measures have any positive impact on controlling the pandemic. RESULTS The results show that simulated number of patients (without policy measures) surpassed the actual number of patients (with policy measures) from the first week of July 2020 which may provide a signal about the positive impact of policy measures taken by the government. CONCLUSION This study concludes that policy measures taken by the government are useful to some extent in controlling the coronavirus pandemic. As this pandemic lingers, people may lose their patience to stay at home. Consequently, some of the policies need further correction and change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayatullah Al Musabi Akanda
- Department of Economics, Government Ashek Mahmud College (Under Ministry of Education), Jamalpur, Bangladesh
| | - Redwan Ahmed
- Department of Economics, Pabna University of Science and Technology, Pabna, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lalaoui R, Bakour S, Raoult D, Verger P, Sokhna C, Devaux C, Pradines B, Rolain JM. What could explain the late emergence of COVID-19 in Africa? New Microbes New Infect 2020; 38:100760. [PMID: 32983542 PMCID: PMC7508045 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2020.100760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
At the end of November 2019, a novel coronavirus responsible for respiratory tract infections emerged in China. Despite drastic containment measures, this virus, known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), spread in Asia and Europe. The pandemic is ongoing with a particular hotspot in southern Europe and America in spring 2020. Many studies predicted an epidemic in Africa similar to that currently seen in Europe and the USA. However, reported data do not confirm these predictions. Several hypotheses that could explain the later emergence and spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in African countries are being discussed, including the lack of health-care infrastructure capable of clinically detecting and confirming COVID-19 cases, the implementation of social distancing and hygiene, international air traffic flows, the climate, the relatively young and rural population, the genetic polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor, cross-immunity and the use of antimalarial drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Lalaoui
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - S. Bakour
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - D. Raoult
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - P. Verger
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Southeastern Health Regional Observatory, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, SSA, AP-HM, VITROME, Marseille, France
| | - C. Sokhna
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, SSA, AP-HM, VITROME, Marseille, France
| | - C. Devaux
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - B. Pradines
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, SSA, AP-HM, VITROME, Marseille, France
- Unité parasitologie et entomologie, Institut de recherche biomédicale des armées, Marseille, France
- Centre national de référence du paludisme, Marseille, France
| | - J.-M. Rolain
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Non-compliance with COVID-19-related public health measures among young adults in Switzerland: Insights from a longitudinal cohort study. Soc Sci Med 2020; 268:113370. [PMID: 32980677 PMCID: PMC7493799 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rationale Adolescents and young adults were identified internationally as a group with potentially low compliance rates with public health measures aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although non-compliance research during pandemics has typically focused on concurrent correlates, less is known about how prior social and psychological risk factors are associated with non-compliance during pandemics. Objective This paper leverages a prospective-longitudinal cohort study with data before and during the pandemic to describe patterns of non-compliance with COVID- 19 related public health measures in young adults and to identify which characteristics increase the risk of non-compliance. Methods Data came from an ongoing cohort study in Zurich, Switzerland (n=737). Non-compliance with public health measures and concurrent correlates were measured at age 22. Antecedent sociodemographic, social, and psychological factors were measured at ages 15-20. Young adults generally complied with COVID-19 public health measures, although non-compliance with some measures (e.g., cleaning/disinfecting mobile phones, standing 1.5-2 meters apart) was relatively higher. Results Non-compliance, especially with hygiene-related measures, was more prevalent in males, and in individuals with higher education, higher SES, and a nonmigrant background. Non-compliance was higher in young adults who had previously scored high on indicators of “antisocial potential,” including low acceptance of moral rules, pre-pandemic legal cynicism, low shame/guilt, low self-control, engagement in delinquent behaviors, and association with delinquent peers. Young adults with low trust, including in the government’s measures for fighting the virus, also complied less. Conclusions In order to increase voluntary compliance with COVID-19 measures, public health campaigns should implement strategies that foster moral obligation and trust in authorities, or leverage trustworthy individuals in the community to disseminate information. For young adults with low self-control, self-monitoring, environmental restructuring, or nudging may increase compliance. Long-term investments into integrating youth with antisocial potential into society may decrease rule-breaking behaviors, including during pandemics when compliance saves lives. Swiss men were less likely to comply with COVID-19 public health measures than women. Pre-pandemic factors were associated with COVID-19 non-compliance. Factors related to “antisocial potential” were associated with non-compliance. Moral disengagement from COVID-19 rules was strongly associated with non-compliance. Low trust in Swiss authorities was associated with non-compliance.
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
This study attempt to examine the risk reduction mechanism of the COVID-19 outbreak in Pakistan. World Health Organization (WHO) declared the emergency and provided guidelines to reduce the risk of a pandemic. Thus, people tried to adopt multiple health safety measures to reduce the risk of a pandemic outbreak. Therefore, this study was designed to conduct an online survey technique to collect information from 1264 individuals in Pakistan. The rationale to select the technique was based on the pandemic situations in the country i.e. COVID-19. Moreover, it was used to main social distancing and following the health safety measures. Thus, a well-structured questionnaire was administered based on an attitudinal scale and google form was used. The inclusion criteria were defined on the questionnaire such as an independent age bracket (18-60), resident of Pakistan, using social media, and literate. The response was stopped after reaching the sample at 1264 participants. The study findings reveal that social isolation, social distancing, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) had a significant positive impact on risk reduction of COVID-19 among individuals. Moreover, hand and respiratory hygienic along with the risk of infection also significantly contributing to minimizing the pandemic outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shoaib
- Department of Sociology, University of Gujrat , Gujrat, Pakistan
| | - Farooq Abdullah
- Department of Sociology, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST) , Mirpur, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
The UN has described the health, social and economic consequences of Covid-19 as a global crisis unlike any other encountered in its history. Although a pandemic of this nature was not unforeseeable, its arrival seems to have caught the world off guard, hurling us into a state of partly haphazard disaster mitigation. It has shed sharper light on the failure of global health in its current form to tackle acute and systemic challenges in a rapidly changing world, and the unequal patterns in society that leave us vulnerable. This commentary argues that, despite its devastating effects, the Covid-19 pandemic can be a longer-term positively transformative event for global health. However, this will require going beyond the development of more effective plans for health emergency preparedness, to confront the crisis in global health governance and leadership, and rethink the roles of key actors involved in world health. It ultimately calls us back to the very concept of 'global health': the values it should encompass, what we should expect from it and how we might envisage reshaping or 'co-creating' it for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Casale
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|