Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Physical activity patterns of university students during the COVID‑19 pandemic: The impact of state anxiety

. Youssra Amekran; . Abdelkader Jalil El Hangouche

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) and resulting restrictions have impacted populations’ lifestyles and posed a challenge regarding their behaviors, including physical activity ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) and resulting restrictions have impacted populations’ lifestyles and posed a challenge regarding their behaviors, including physical activity (PA). This study aimed to evaluate PA patterns of university students during the COVID‑19 outbreak. We also analyzed the association of participants’ characteristics, including their level of anxiety, under the pandemic conditions, with adherence to the world health organization (WHO) recommendations for PA.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study comprised 717 Moroccan university students recruited during the COVID‑19 pandemic. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ V.2) was used to evaluate PA. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and anxiety levels were also collected. Anxiety was assessed using State‑Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out. The association between participants’ characteristics and PA was studied using regression models.RESULTS: Of all participants, 33.2% did not achieve the recommended levels of PA. The daily median (25th–75th percentile) time spent in PA was 34.3 min (12.7–98.6), whereas the median time of sedentariness was 10 h per day (6–14). Multivariate analysis showed that female sex (OR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.44–0.90; P < 0.05) and high level of state anxiety (OR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.20–0.92; P < 0.05) were negatively associated with the achievement of the WHO recommended PA.CONCLUSION: The reported PA patterns of university students during the current outbreak should be taken into account and evoke the necessity of encouraging this population to adhere to the recommended PA levels. Targeting state anxiety related to the conditions we are facing may have a promising effect on the promotion of PA.

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Risk Perception in the COVID‑19 pandemic; a health promotion approach

. Maryam Feiz Arefi; . Amin Pouya Babaei; . Somaye Barzanouni; . Sahar Ebrahimi; . Amir Reza Salehi; . Farahnaz Khajehnasiri; . Mohsen Poursadeghian

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Many measures have been taken so far to minimize the outbreak of COVID‑19, but it is still unclear to what extent people have understood the risk. Public participation ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Many measures have been taken so far to minimize the outbreak of COVID‑19, but it is still unclear to what extent people have understood the risk. Public participation plays a vital role in better and effective control of the coronavirus, and the importance of risk perception is effective in their preventive behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the pandemic risk perception of coronavirus disease after began of pandemic in Iranian society.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in Iran in spring 2020. The data collection tool was a researcher‑made questionnaire. The questions were extracted through interviews with experts and summarizing the opinions of public interviews, etc., The questionnaire was made available to the public through social media. The information was collected within 3 months. Quantitative data were reported as mean ± standard deviation and the qualitative data were reported as number and percent. Multiple linear regression and cross were also used to examine the demographic factors associated with risk perception. Data Analysis was performed using the SPSS version 21 statistical software.RESULTS: In this study, 402 individuals from 28 provinces (Azarbaijan Gharbi, Azarbaijan Sharghi, Alborz, Ardabil, Bushehr, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Ghazvin, Gilan, Golestan, Hamedan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshah, Khorasan Razavi, Khorasan Shomali, Khuzestan, Kohgiluyeh and Boyerahmad, Kurdistan, Lorestan, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, and Zanjan) of Iran participated. The risk perception score obtained from the sum of the scores of the questions was classified into quartiles. Accordingly, the risk perception score of (22.9) 92 people was very low, (26.6) 107 people low, (26.9) 108 people moderate, and (23.6) 95 people high. The results of multiple linear regression showed that the variables of gender (P = 0.008) and occupation (P = 0.013) had a significant relationship with risk perception. There was no significant relationship between risk perception and variables of age, marital status, and level of education (P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: The study showed that the risk perception of the people is more in categories of moderate to high. Assessing the risk perception of a pandemic can be helpful for preventive measurements and planning, and also, according to the results of the research, can be done appropriate educational interventions. Given that 47.5% of respondents were employees, of course, it should be noted that in sending a questionnaire virtually, there is usually a lot of loss and this is a limitation of the research. The results of this study can be useful in making prevention decisions and maintaining safety and health in the workplace.

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COVID‑19 vaccine hesitancy and influence of professional medical guidance

. Govind Nair; . Kirthika Venkatesan; . Arjun Nair; . Irene N. Firoz; . Nisha Nigil Haroon

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy presents a major challenge during the COVID‑19 pandemic. It is crucial to address the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy necessary to control ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy presents a major challenge during the COVID‑19 pandemic. It is crucial to address the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy necessary to control the associated morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate the impact of professional medical guidance on the likelihood of receiving the COVID‑19 vaccine in immigrants of USA and Canada.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 92 immigrants in the USA and Canada who predominantly spoke Malayalam were recruited using social media platforms. An online survey was administered investigating participants’ confidence in receiving the COVID‑19 vaccine. Following, a short webinar was conducted by a medical professional explaining the efficacy and safety of the vaccine. A postwebinar survey was immediately given assessing the confidence and likelihood of receiving the vaccine. SPSS was used to generate descriptive statistics and Pearson Chi‑square analysis where appropriate.RESULTS: Results revealed that participants who attended the webinar reported greater confidence in receiving the COVID‑19 vaccine. There was a statistically significant difference between pre‑ and postwebinar confidence scores for the COVID‑19 vaccine, 2 (12, n = 80) = 43.34, P < 0.01.CONCLUSION: Results from the current study demonstrate the successful delivery of professional medical guidance to the general public through online small‑group sessions to help address the misconceptions surrounding the COVID‑19 vaccine and combat vaccine hesitancy among vulnerable populations. Future studies should focus on interventions addressing vaccine hesitancy in larger and diverse populations and analyze other barriers to vaccination.

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Mapping of epidemiological determinants of confirmed COVID‑19 cases among health‑care workers of municipal corporation of Delhi: A roadmap to risk reduction

. Sunil Kumar Singh; . Sumit Jethani; . Anshumali Gupta; . Bhushan Dattatray Kamble; . Saudan Singh; . Pooja Ahlawat

Volume 12, Issue 3 , March 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) is a respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus which can spread from person to person. Health‑care workers of any medical ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) is a respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus which can spread from person to person. Health‑care workers of any medical college and hospital are at more risk to the coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) than the general population. The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiological profile of confirmed COVID‑19 cases among health‑care workers of Municipal Corporation of Delhi.METHODOLOGY: A cross‑sectional study was planned among 422 health‑care workers of Municipal Corporation of Delhi. The questionnaire consisted of questions about sociodemographic data, personal history, and clinical profile such as signs and symptoms and their duration. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 21.0, and, Chi‑square test and logistic regression were used.RESULTS: Mean age of study subjects was 41.1 ± 9.8 years, and males (57.6%) were more as compared to (42.4%) females. Out of total participants, about one‑third (36.4%) of study participants were asymptomatic. Study participants with higher education status adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.43 (1.25–4.70), living in overcrowding AOR 3.74 (1.86–7.54), and having some comorbidity AOR 2.78 (1.57–4.92) were at higher risk of being symptomatic.CONCLUSION: This study concludes that about one‑third of study participants were asymptomatic. Factors such as higher education status, living in overcrowding, presence of some comorbidity, and smokeless tobacco consumption were significantly associated with symptomatic COVID‑19 cases. Hence, there is a need to identify these risk factors at an early stage in order to design prevention strategies for better control of such pandemics in future.

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Persian mobile health applications for COVID‑19: A use case‑based study

. Rasool Nouri; . Raheleh Salari; . Sharareh R. Niakan Kalhori; . Seyed Mohammad Ayyoubzadeh; . Marsa Gholamzadeh

Volume 12, Issue 3 , March 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Since the beginning of the COVID‑19 outbreak, a significant number of mobile health apps have been created around the world and in Iran to help consequence reduction ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Since the beginning of the COVID‑19 outbreak, a significant number of mobile health apps have been created around the world and in Iran to help consequence reduction of this emerging pandemic.OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to review the characteristics of Persian Android and iOS apps related to COVID‑19 and determine their use‑cases based on a reference model.METHODS: This was a cross‑sectional descriptive study conducted in three main steps. First, a systematic search was conducted via Iranian mobile apps’ markets using the keywords related to COVID‑19 in January 2021. Then, the retrieved apps were analyzed according to their characteristics. Finally, the use‑cases of the given apps were determined and categorized based on a reference model.RESULTS: Based on our inclusion criteria, 122 apps were selected and evaluated. Most of these apps (87.7%) was free. Small proportions (5%) of reviewed apps have been developed with participation of clinical expert and half of the apps mentioned the references they used. Furthermore, about half of the apps (50.8%) were provided contact information of the developers. The studied apps were classified into four use‑case major categories, including educational (98%), fulfilling a contextual need (18%), communicating, and/or sharing the information (0.83%), and health‑related management (2%).CONCLUSION: The results showed that the Persian mobile apps for COVID‑19 are not in a satisfying situation. Furthermore, although these apps are significant in quantity but in terms of use‑cases, they are not widespread.

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Job burnout among nurses during COVID‑19 pandemic: A systematic review

. Mahdi Zareei; . Zeinab Tabanejad; . Fatemeh Oskouie; . Abbas Ebadi; . Morteza Mesri

Volume 12, Issue 3 , March 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Nurses are in close contact with COVID‑19 patients and due to the high risk of infection, they experience fear and anxiety that can result in burnout. This study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Nurses are in close contact with COVID‑19 patients and due to the high risk of infection, they experience fear and anxiety that can result in burnout. This study aimed to review the studies on burnout among nurses during the COVID‑19 epidemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study followed the guideline for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‑analysis (PRISMA). Using the keywords: “burnout,” “nurse,” and “COVID‑19” and with the help of Boolean operators, “AND” and “OR” the online databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct were searched. Articles published from the first of February 2020 to 30 October, 2020 were retrieved. After the quality appraisal, the required data were extracted and analyzed.RESULTS: Out of 85 articles identified in the initial search, and after removing duplicates and those that did not have the required data, seven articles entered the analysis. Among these articles, four (57.14%) reported moderate burnout and three articles (42.86) reported high level of burnout among nurses during the COVID‑19 pandemic.CONCLUSIONS: A majority of the studies reported that nurses experienced a moderate level of burnout during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Given the prevalence of burnout in nurses and because nurses are the largest portion of the healthcare providers who are in close contact with patients infected by COVID‑19, it is necessary for health care policymakers to adopt strategies for preventing or reducing burnout among nurses.

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Acceptance of COVID‑19 vaccine among healthcare workers before the launch of vaccine in India: An online survey

. Sabira Aalia Dkhar; . Asif Jeelani; . Ruqia Quansar; . S. Muhammad Salim Khan

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 has led to significant morbidity and mortality globally in addition to unprecedented disruption in economic activities. Vaccination against it is considered ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 has led to significant morbidity and mortality globally in addition to unprecedented disruption in economic activities. Vaccination against it is considered to be the only sustainable way out of this pandemic. The study was conducted to estimate vaccine acceptance among doctors in India using an online survey.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study using a purposive sampling method was conducted two weeks before vaccine rollout. A pretested questionnaire developed using Google forms was shared by social media groups targeting doctors only.The questions collected information regarding socio‑demographic details, knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID‑19 vaccination. Data was downloaded and analysed using SPSS‑v23. Chi‑square test and fisher exact test was used and P < 0.05 was considered significant.RESULTS: A total of 511 records were included in the final analysis of which 340 (66.53%) reported to be either definitely or probably willing to accept COVID‑19 vaccine. One third of respondents were working in COVID‑19 designated hospitals (37.2%), 30% were posted in non COVID‑19 hospitals, 25.1% had no direct contact with COVID‑19 patients while 7.7% doctors were involved in testing COVID‑19 diagnosis. Subjects who perceived a higher risk of contracting COVID‑19, those who perceived that vaccine would be effective against COVID‑19 and those who felt that vaccine will not have any serious side effects were more likely to accept the vaccine.CONCLUSION: There is an urgent need to address any apprehensions regarding COVID‑19 vaccines. A tailored and intensified advocacy program for doctors is needed before the launch of vaccine.

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Barriers faced by health‑care workers in use of personal protective equipment during COVID pandemic at tertiary care hospital Uttarakhand, India: A qualitative study

. Maneesh Sharma; . Divita Sharma; . Ashok Kumar Sharma; . Aroop Mohanty; . Meenakshi Khapre; . C. Vasantha Kalyani

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: To reduce the likelihood of transmission of infection to health‑care workers (HCWs), personal protective equipment is used. However, wearing personal protective equipment ...  Read More BACKGROUND: To reduce the likelihood of transmission of infection to health‑care workers (HCWs), personal protective equipment is used. However, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) increases the risk of heat stress and loss of dexterity, leads to poor compliance to PPE. To address the issues of poor compliance to PPE, it was necessary to gain a deeper understanding about the factors that influence compliance. Thus this qualitative study was planned to explore barriers faced by HCWs while using PPE during a pandemic situation in a tertiary care hospital, Uttarakhand, India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A exploratory qualitative study was undertaken among health care workers involved in the care of COVID patients. FGDs were done and an unstructured interview guide with open‑ended questions was used which helped to explore the factors which can be potential barriers to the HCWs while working wearing PPE.RESULTS: Organizational and individual factors acting as barriers such as unavailability of essential personal protective equipment, a disharmonious work environment, lack of comfort, inadequate size, and quality of PPE were identified as the major barriers in the present study.CONCLUSION: Future efforts to optimize PPE use should focus on to adequate supplies both in quality and quantity can help in avoidance of such barriers. Resources should be prioritized with the needs of the HCWs in the times of pandemic. Regular training and feedbacks are necessary for the satisfaction of HCWs and improving PPE compliance.

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Assessing vaccine hesitancy among health‑care workers in Jammu and Kashmir: A cross‑sectional study

. Naveed Nazir Shah; . Syed Quibtiya Khursheed; . Zaid Khan, Shuja Reagu; . Majid Alabdulla; . Inaamul Haq; . Shabir Ahmad Dar; . Adnan Hamza; . Khurshid Ahmad Dar; . Syed Suraiya Farooq; . Bikram Singh Datta

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization declared vaccine hesitancy as one of the planet’s top 10 global health threats in 2019. With the rollout of the coronavirus disease‑19 ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization declared vaccine hesitancy as one of the planet’s top 10 global health threats in 2019. With the rollout of the coronavirus disease‑19 (COVID‑19) vaccines, a survey was conducted to find out the hesitancy and the apprehensions that come along with taking COVID‑19 vaccines among health‑care workers (HCWs).MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an online cross‑sectional survey which was developed and shared through social media platforms among the HCWs of Kashmir. The survey captured demographic data and used a validated hesitancy measurement tool from January 2021 to February 2021. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression using Stata 15 (Stata Corp. 2017. Stata Statistical Software: Release 15. College Station, TX: Stata Corp LLC).RESULTS: Willingness to take the COVID‑19 vaccine when available was seen in 67.7% of the HCWs. Overall, 9.59% of respondents reported unwillingness to receive a vaccine for COVID‑19, while 22.7% were unsure. The most commonly cited reason for willingness to get vaccinated was an understanding of the disease and vaccination, as reported by 81.5%. Being single was significantly related to an increased risk of vaccine hesitancy (adjusted odds ratio = 5.27, 95% confidence interval: 2.07–13.40). Among vaccine attitudes, concerns about the safety of the vaccine, unforeseen problems in children, and possible unknown future adverse effects of the vaccine were the most important determinants of unwillingness.CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of the HCWs showed vaccine hesitancy to the COVID‐19 vaccine. Hesitancy attitudes were almost always driven by concern around the vaccine safety. States and health‑care authorities need to recognize the massive trust deficit around the Covid‑19 vaccine and use the popular media used by people to share credible and reliable information.

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The effect of online cognitive behavioral therapy on depressive symptoms in recovered patients with COVID‑19

. Navid Mirzakhani Araghi; . Mehdi Alizadeh Zarei; . Shafagh Saei; . Hamid Reza Yousefi Nodeh; . Ebrahim Mahmoudi

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 virus is on the rise globally, and people with the disease experience a variety of physical and mental problems. According to studies, depression can be ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 virus is on the rise globally, and people with the disease experience a variety of physical and mental problems. According to studies, depression can be a complication of the virus. So far, limited measures have been taken to prevent and treat emotional–psychological complications of COVID‑19. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on depressive symptoms in recovered patients with COVID‑19.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in a quasi‑experimental design. A sample of 150 recovered patients with COVID‑19 who referred to Imam Reza Hospital in Tabriz city, were selected by random sampling method. The patients’ emotional–psychological status was assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory, and they entered the treatment process according to the inclusion criteria. As a therapeutic intervention, a scientific and valid approach called CBT was implemented, which two occupational therapists performed in eight treatment sessions in the context of a social communication application. Paired sample t‑test was used to analyze the time sequence of quantitative data due to its normality.RESULTS: After the last session of the intervention, the effect of this therapeutic approach on reducing the depressive symptoms of patients was evaluated. According to the findings, the Beck score of the participants decreased significantly after the intervention (MD = ‒45/9, P < 0/001).CONCLUSION: Therefore, in order to promote the recovery of patients with COVID‑19 and help health authorities to develop preventive measures and effective treatment of emotional–psychological problems caused by this virus, it is recommended to use the online CBT approach.

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The relationship between health‑related quality of life of students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding COVID‑19 in 2020

. Reza Heidari‑Soureshjani; . Tayeb Mohammadi; . Ali Hashemi‑Shahraki; . Roya Khorrami Estakhri; . Arezoo Rasti

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Present study attempts to investigate health‑related quality of life (HRQoL) and its relation with knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of students of Tehran ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Present study attempts to investigate health‑related quality of life (HRQoL) and its relation with knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of students of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) during this pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional study which was conducted between 23 may to 21 June 2020, 470 students in different levels of TUMS were included to the study randomly. participants completed validate, designed online questionnaire which assessed KAP towards coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) and HRQoL. All statistical tests were applied, including Chi‑square and Fisher’s exact test, Partial correlation, analysis of variance, multiple linear regression, multiple binary and multinomial logistic regression models (P < 0.05) and were performed in SPSS 16, R 4.0.2, and GraphPad Prism 6.0 softwares.RESULTS: A total of 470 students were included in the study. The overall correct answer rate of the COVID‑19 knowledge questionnaire was 74.43% and total score of the HRQoL was 72.50 (14.85). 61.7% of the students were agreed that COVID‑19 will finally be successfully controlled, 44.3% had confidence that Iran can win the battle against the COVID‑19, and 92.6% agreed that Quarantine will reduce the prevalence of COVID‑19. Most of them adhered to health protocols and about a relation between HRQoL and knowledge we have a weak positive and unsignificant correlation between them (r = 0.05, P = 0.27).CONCLUSIONS: TUMS students showed expected levels of knowledge, proper attitudes, and preemptive practices regarding COVID‑19, whereas COVID‑19 outbreak substantially affected the physical and mental health but, the students were in a way better physical health rather than mental. Therefore, motivational planning and other related intervention to improve mental health can be noticeable.

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Six‑minute walk test and its predictability in outcome of COVID‑19 patients

. Kamal Bandhu Klanidhi; . Avinash Chakrawarty; . Shailendra S. Bhadouria; . Sudeep M. George; . Gaurav Sharma; . Prasun Chatterjee; . Vijay Kumar; . Saurabh Vig; . Nishkarsh Gupta; . Vishwajeet Singh; . Aparajit Ballav Dey; . Anant Mohan; . Sushma Bhatnagar

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The world is worsely hit by the COVID‑19 pandemic resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Increased mortality has been observed in older adults with multiple ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The world is worsely hit by the COVID‑19 pandemic resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Increased mortality has been observed in older adults with multiple comorbidities. Six‑minute walk distance (6MWD) at admission can help us to guide the requirement of oxygen during hospital stay that can be used to determine which patient can be managed at home.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a prospective observational study conducted on COVID‑19 patients admitted at AIIMS, New Delhi, from October to December 2020. Patients aged more than 60 years were included in the study and underwent 6‑min walk tests. Polypharmacy and multimorbidity were also assessed along with dyspnea which was measured on BORG scale. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Statistical software STATA (version 14.2) was used for all the analyses.RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 68.76 (7.4). Oxygen saturation prior to the 6‑MWT was normal and has significantly higher than the post test (P ≤ 0.001). 6MWD was significantly correlated with pre values of oxygen saturation. 6MWD was observed more in patients who did not require oxygen during hospital stay. Self‑reported dyspnea, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and systolic blood pressure were significantly associated with the patients who had an oxygen requirement during the hospital stay.CONCLUSION: Self‑reported dyspnea after 6MWT was found to be associated with oxygen requirement during hospital stay. Patients who have covered more distance in 6‑min walk test have less oxygen requirement during hospital stay hence can be managed at home. This will reduce the health‑care burden and will help to tackle the outburst during the ongoing pandemic.

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Contributing factors of willingness and hesitancy regarding acceptance of COVID‑19 vaccine in primary care settings: A qualitative study in an eastern state of India

. Sweety Suman Jha; . Bobby Paul; . Rahul Das; . Biswadip Chattopadhyay; . Arista Lahiri

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: For any effective vaccination strategy, the willingness of the beneficiaries and its contributing factors are important. This study was conducted among the health‑care ...  Read More BACKGROUND: For any effective vaccination strategy, the willingness of the beneficiaries and its contributing factors are important. This study was conducted among the health‑care workers (HCWs) and community members to find the perceptions regarding the COVID‑19 vaccine and understand the influencers and the barriers of vaccine acceptance.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted from October 2020 to December 2020 in two primary care settings in an urban area. Eighteen in‑depth interviews (IDIs) after taking consent were conducted with the help of IDI guide developed and validated beforehand by the experts. IDIs were done among the ten community members and eight HCWs selected conveniently. Data collection were continued till data saturation when no new information yielded from the interviews. Thematic analysis was performed.RESULTS: All the participants were hopeful about availability of the vaccine. The key influencers identified for promoting willingness to accept the vaccine among both the groups were opinion of the health‑care providers, colleagues’ and other people’s acceptance of the vaccine, effectiveness of vaccine on other people, and perceived risk of the disease. Fear of adverse reactions was the most important barrier among all the respondents. The prevalent perception was that other preventive practices and vaccine together can only be the best solution to prevent COVID‑19 illness. The HCWs perceived that acceptance of vaccine among the community members would be good overall but apprehended some initial difficulties. Mass campaign to promote COVID‑19 vaccination and sensitization events are the need of the hour.CONCLUSIONS: Since opinion of health‑care personnel emerged as an important influencer of vaccine acceptance, mass campaign and sensitization programs spearheaded by the health‑care providers can bring about change by increasing the vaccine acceptance among the beneficiaries at large. Re‑enforcement regarding practice of preventive measures should be made among the population irrespective of the vaccination status.

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Medical students and doctors’ perceptions toward COVID‑19 health communication on social media

. Resiana Citra; . Rizma Adlia Syakurah

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Ineffective health communication could cause the increase of COVID‑19 cases in Indonesia. Medical students can involve in efforts in health communication on social ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Ineffective health communication could cause the increase of COVID‑19 cases in Indonesia. Medical students can involve in efforts in health communication on social media to positively impact prevention behaviors during a pandemic. This study aims to identify and analyze medical students’ and internship doctors’ perceptions toward health communication related to COVID‑19 through social media.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed method with exploratory sequential used. A qualitative study was done using phenomenology approach through deep and semi‑structured interviewing. After data analysis, the draft of the instrument prepared. Items in the draft selected based on the respondents’ answer. Then, a quantitative cross‑sectional study was used. The data obtained from 399 medical students and doctors at a University in Indonesia using Google Form on October 14 to October 20, 2020 through media social. Data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and Chi‑square (alternative: Fisher’s exact test) and logistic regression analysis with P < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval, respectively.RESULTS: Based on interview, respondents communicate health on social media because the condition of COVID‑19 in Indonesia is dangerous, feel vulnerable to COVID‑19, understand the benefits, obligations, or responsibilities as a candidate and/or medical personnel and believe theycan create content/find valid sources. Meanwhile, the perception of limited knowledge is their biggestobstacle in conducting health communication. There were a relationship between gender (P = 0.028, PR = 0.657), perceived severity (P = 0.044, PR (Prevalence Ratio) =4.844 [0.725–32,354]), perceived susceptibility (P = 0.005, PR = 1.803 [1.182–2.750]), perceived barrier (P < 0.001, PR = 2.543 [1.908–3.388]), and self‑efficacy (P = 0.012, PR = 1.810 [1.120–2.926]) with health communication behavior. The perceived barrier (P < 0.001, RR = 4.278 [2.709–6.754]) and perceived susceptibility (P = 0.004, PR = 2.304 [1.302–4.077]) were the most influenced behavior.CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived barrier, and self‑efficacy are predictor factors of health communication behavior related to COVID‑19on social media with perceptions of susceptibility and perceived barriers as the most influentialvariables. It is necessary to provide communication learning on social media as effectively and applied directly to reduce perceived barriers and increase self‑efficacy.

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Factors associated with knowledge of health care workers toward COVID‑19 in health facilities West Guji zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2020

. Zelalem Jabessa Wayessa; . Wako Golicha Wako

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus pandemic puts healthcare workers (HCWs) at high risk and challenges the abilities of healthcare systems to respond to the crisis. This study aimed to assess ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus pandemic puts healthcare workers (HCWs) at high risk and challenges the abilities of healthcare systems to respond to the crisis. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge of HCWs and associated factors in West Guji zone public health facilities in southern Ethiopia.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A health facility‑based quantitative cross‑sectional study was undertaken from June 10 to July 10, 2020. Two hundred and eighty‑three HCWs were involved in the study using a systematic sampling method. The instrument was pretested on 5% of the sample in Yabello Hospital. Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.RESULTS: The HCW who had good knowledge was 84.7%. HCWs who had degree holders, masters and above holders, work experience of 2–4 years, and >4 years of experiences, had training on Coronavirus, and medical diseases were significantly associated with good knowledge of Coronavirus.CONCLUSIONS: This study indicated that HCWs’ knowledge about the Coronavirus was good. Improving the educational status of HCWs and giving updated training on the Coronavirus will improve HCW’s knowledge of the Coronavirus.

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Exploring the experiences of nurses and physicians infected with COVID‑19

. Maryam Moghimian; . Kolsoum Farzi; . Sedigheh Farzi; . Azam Moladoost; . Simin Safiri

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Health‑care providers, including physicians and nurses, are vital resources of thehealth‑care system, and their health is essential to ensure safe care and to control ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Health‑care providers, including physicians and nurses, are vital resources of thehealth‑care system, and their health is essential to ensure safe care and to control outbreaks in thecommunity. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of physicians and nurses infectedwith COVID‑19.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive exploratory qualitative study was conducted in 2020.To conduct this study, 19 participants (5 physicians and 14 nurses) were selected using purposivesampling. Data were collected using semi‑structured interviews. Data analysis was performed usingconventional content analysis.RESULTS: Eight main categories of “Fear and anxiety,” “Fighting against COVID‑19,” “Feelingabandoned during home quarantine period,” “Denial of disease despite testing positive,” “Recovery:the second opportunity,” “Imposition of psychological burden after returning to work,” “Promotion of thehealth professional perception,” and “Promising supportive resources,” as well as 21 subcategories,were extracted from the participants’ experiences.CONCLUSION: The experiences of physicians and nurses with COVID‑19 revealed that theirperception of the profession and providing care had changed. This experience has highlighted thefocus and effort to promote patient‑centered care and interprofessional collaboration among them.

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Health‑care workers’ experience of stressors and adaptation strategies for COVID‑19: A qualitative research

. Vajihe Atashi; . Shahla Abolhasani; . Atefeh Afshari

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The mental health of health‑care workers with their unique role in respondingto the COVID‑19 pandemic is strictly essential. Hence, to react effectively to the pandemic, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The mental health of health‑care workers with their unique role in respondingto the COVID‑19 pandemic is strictly essential. Hence, to react effectively to the pandemic, it isessential to collect further data on the stressors and adaptation strategies. The aim of this study isto explain the health‑care workers’ experiences of stressors and adaptation strategies used duringthe COVID‑19 pandemic outbreak.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative content analysis approach was employed in thisstudy, with semi‑structured in‑depth interviews. Nineteen health‑care workers participated in thestudy by purposeful sampling method. The study setting included selective educational hospitalsthat admitting patients infected with COVID‑19. The data were analyzed using content analysismethod.RESULTS: Stressors were classified under four major categories: idiopathic, i.e., arising fromunknown causes, individual and familial, stressful work environment, and socially imposed stressors.The adaptation strategies were classified under inactive and active adaptation strategies.CONCLUSIONS: The stressors include the stresses arising from the unknown nature of the disease,stressful work environment, individual and familial stresses, and the socially imposed stresses. Theadaptation strategies include inactive and active adaptation strategies. Identification of these factorscan help workers and management to effectively react to the pandemic.

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Knowledge and performance of the Iranian general population in the use of masks during the 2019 coronavirus

. Seyedeh Tahereh Mirmolaei; . Mehrnaz Geranmayeh; . Hamid Salehiniya; . Azam Mohammadi; . Marzieh Ebrahimi

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The use of personal protective equipment (especially face masks) has increased indifferent communities amid the COVID‑19 pandemic. Therefore, the present study aimed to ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The use of personal protective equipment (especially face masks) has increased indifferent communities amid the COVID‑19 pandemic. Therefore, the present study aimed to assessknowledge and performance of Iranian general population in wearing face masks.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is a cross‑sectional study conducted using a validand reliable questionnaire on 1843 eligible individuals. The questionnaires were shared by Link (www.porsall.com) in groups and social networks. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 24.0, SPSSInc., Chicago, IL).RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 42.84 years (standard deviation: 16.84). Themajority had inadequate and low knowledge of masks (69.2%), nearly 30% had moderate (30.1%),and few had adequate and high knowledge of masks. The individuals’ knowledge on when to weara mask was also assessed and the results showed poor and low in 42.2%, 46.9% moderate andhigh performance in 10.7%. The participants’ performance on how to properly wear a mask was alsoassessed and 12% showed poor, 69.3% showed moderate, and 18.7% showed high performance.Safe removal of masks was also assessed, and the results showed 52% low and poor, 27.6%moderate, and 20.3% high performance. A significant and direct correlation was found between theoverall score knowledge and performance regarding use of masks (P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: The results showed poor to moderate knowledge and performance of majority ofIranian general population regarding the masks. Therefore, further effective training courses andaction plans are needed in Iran given the importance of masks for the prevention of COVID‑19,especially in public places. Educational package about how to use the mask and its benefits, throughthe media and health centers is recommended.

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Psychosocial perception of health‑care workers in a COVID‑19‑designated hospital in eastern India

. Subrata Das; . Avik Chakraborty; . Samatirtha Chandra

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic has changed the life of people in many facets, economic,social, and psychological. Frontline health‑care workers (HCWs) fighting against this pandemic ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic has changed the life of people in many facets, economic,social, and psychological. Frontline health‑care workers (HCWs) fighting against this pandemic facedsome psychological as well as social issues which are of major concern. The objective of the study isto evaluate the magnitude of mental health problems, namely depression, anxiety, and stress amongfrontline HCWs as well as their perception on ongoing events and surroundings.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a prospective, observational study on n = 85 HCWs overa 4‑month period. Study participants were sampled purposively in accordance with inclusion andexclusion criteria; data were collected by online survey method. A semi‑structured scale was used:Part A of which assessed the demography and perception of HCWs on surrounding along with ongoingsocial events and Part B consisted of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale‑21 that was usedto assess mental health issues. All the associations were tested in percentages and proportions.Statistics was calculated by using SPSS 24th version.RESULTS: Majority of the participants were female doctors and belonged to 21–30 years’ agegroup. Most of them were marginally worried of contacting infection (73%) but were substantiallyapprehensive of transmitting infection to their family (56.5%) and hoped positive outcome ultimatelyin the form of recovery from infection. Majority (96.4%) gathered information from authentic sourcesand were confident of adequacy of their knowledge. Majority (88.3%) were satisfied about theiroccupational safety and responded on scientific solution of pandemic. However, we got a mixedresult about their professional appreciation. Depression symptom score was higher than anxiety andstress symptom score in our participants.CONCLUSIONS: Doctors and nurses both were suffering from mental health issues, and provisionof adequate information and occupational safety may lessen these burdens.

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The level of satisfaction and quality of E‑learning in medical universities of Iran during the epidemic of COVID‑19

. Mina Iravani; . Maryam Beheshti Nasab; . Hadis Bahmaei; . Saeed Ghanbari; . Zaynab Mohaghegh; . Shahla Faal Siahkal

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: E‑learning is web‑based learning for education and training. The current globalpandemic crisis created due to COVID‑19 has made worldwide online learning. This study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: E‑learning is web‑based learning for education and training. The current globalpandemic crisis created due to COVID‑19 has made worldwide online learning. This study aimed toinvestigate the level of satisfaction and quality of E‑learning in medical universities from the students’point of view during the epidemic of COVID‑19 and assessing the obstacles and solutions proposedto improve the quality of E‑learning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional, web‑based study was conducted among 400medical university students of Iran during the epidemic of COVID‑19. After getting written consent,three parts questionnaire contains demographic, user satisfaction, quality questionnaire, and threeopen‑ended questions were distributed randomly using social media. Descriptive analysis, t‑test,Chi‑square, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to achieve the objective of this study, withsignificance set to P < 0.05. Furthermore, three open‑ended questions were reviewed qualitativelyand the problems and solutions suggested by the students were reported.RESULTS: Based on the findings of the descriptive section, 277 of the respondents were girls (69%)with a mean age of 21 ± 2 years. Sixty‑nine percent of students were studying in medical sciencesuniversities and 31% were studying in Islamic Azad University. The level of satisfaction was in theupper range of low (34.0 ± 10.0); P < 0.001, and intention to reuse was moderate (23.06 ± 6.0);P = 0.064. Student’s perception of quality in most domains was in the upper range of low to medium.User satisfaction, intention to reuse, the quality of knowledge, and participatory quality for evaluatingonline courses were significantly higher in the Azad University group than in medical universities.CONCLUSION: Given that this is the first experience in the use of E‑learning in Iran, both universitieshave not yet fully succeeded in satisfying students and it is necessary to increase the quality ofE‑learning based on student suggestions.

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Developing an artificial neural network for detecting COVID‑19 disease

. Mostafa Shanbehzadeh; . Raoof Nopour; . Hadi Kazemi-Arpanahi

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: From December 2019, atypical pneumonia termed COVID‑19 has been increasingexponentially across the world. It poses a great threat and challenge to world health and the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: From December 2019, atypical pneumonia termed COVID‑19 has been increasingexponentially across the world. It poses a great threat and challenge to world health and the economy.Medical specialists face uncertainty in making decisions based on their judgment for COVID‑19.Thus, this study aimed to establish an intelligent model based on artificial neural networks (ANNs)for diagnosing COVID‑19.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a single‑center registry, we studied the records of 250 confirmedCOVID‑19 and 150 negative cases from February 9, 2020, to October 20, 2020. The correlationcoefficient technique was used to determine the most significant variables of the ANN model. Thevariables at P < 0.05 were used for model construction. We applied the back‑propagation techniquefor training a neural network on the dataset. After comparing different neural network configurations,the best configuration of ANN was acquired, then its strength has been evaluated.RESULTS: After the feature selection process, a total of 18 variables were determined as the mostrelevant predictors for developing the ANN models. The results indicated that two nested loops’architecture of 9‑10‑15‑2 (10 and 15 neurons used in layer 1 and layer 2, respectively) with the areaunder the curve of 0.982, the sensitivity of 96.4%, specificity of 90.6%, and accuracy of 94% wasintroduced as the best configuration model for COVID‑19 diagnosis.CONCLUSION: The proposed ANN‑based clinical decision support system could be considered as asuitable computational technique for the frontline practitioner in early detection, effective intervention,and possibly a reduction of mortality in patients with COVID‑19.

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Media coverage of double masking during the COVID‑19 pandemic: A lesson plan

. Nour Mheidly; . Laura Cervi; . Sally Samy Tayie

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Media news emerged reporting that double masking can increase protectionagainst COVID‑19. This led to differential published reports, fueling debate among the public andcreating ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Media news emerged reporting that double masking can increase protectionagainst COVID‑19. This led to differential published reports, fueling debate among the public andcreating controversy and confusion. In this paper, we present a lesson plan for health communicationstudents to enhance their critical thinking ability and equip them with the necessary tools to analyzevarious media texts and products.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The lesson plan included a set of activities on three different newspieces related to double masking, each published through a different media outlet: A newspaper,a television channel, and an online magazine/podcast. The lesson was designed for 120 min,over 2 days. It required a digital device and Internet access. Students were tasked to comparebetween the news based on set criteria and asked to provide their opinions accordingly. They werealso assigned to fill out an inverted pyramid for further analysis and interpretation.RESULTS: Students were assessed through a rubric that evaluated gained competencies afterlesson completion. The rubric is composed of five elements to assess the students’ performances.Elements included filling assigned cells and diagrams, usage of proper English, validation of newssources and reported facts, critical analysis of findings, and finishing the lesson on time.CONCLUSION: This lesson plan enhanced the ability of students to understand and analyze variousmedia texts and validate the content and perspectives published through the different platforms.

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The role of educating health‑care personnel in prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of COVID‑19: A narrative mini review

. Parinaz Tabari; . Mitra Amini; . Neil Arya; . Mohsen Moghadami; . Kaveh Khoshnood; . Mansoureh Shokripour; . Navid Omidifar

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  Front‑line clinicians and health‑care workers need to be educated to provide care in critical situationssuch as large‑scale catastrophes and pandemics. This narrative review is ...  Read More Front‑line clinicians and health‑care workers need to be educated to provide care in critical situationssuch as large‑scale catastrophes and pandemics. This narrative review is focused on investigatingeducational strategies in confrontation with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic. Weconducted a literature search in December 2020 through LitCovid, PubMed, ERIC, and CochraneLibrary in order to retrieve relevant studies regarding the role of education in prevention, diagnosis,and treatment of COVID‑19. There were 12 reviewed studies related to this specific subject. Thearticles selected for this study demonstrated that education and training had a positive impact on theknowledge and attitude of the participants and also the educational interventions, whether they weresimulation‑based or other formats of training, would be deemed crucial for enhancing participants’ levelof perceptions and confidence. Therefore, it is highly recommended that public health policymakersconsider this important issue.

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Psychological consequences of lockdown on dental professionals during the early phase of the COVID‑19 pandemic

. Bhuvan Jyoti; . Manisha Kiran; . Rahul Srivastava; . Vikas Jaiswal; . Swati Kumari; . Amitabh K. Sinha

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the virus that causes COVID‑19,mainly spreads through respiratory droplets. The dental profession is particularly at risk. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the virus that causes COVID‑19,mainly spreads through respiratory droplets. The dental profession is particularly at risk. Routinedental care was suspended after the announcement of the first lockdown in India. This makes thegroup vulnerable to psychosocial consequences. The present study aims to evaluate the psychosocialissues among dental professionals during COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Across‑sectional study was conducted among 627 dental professionalsof India, using online Google Forms from April 23, 2020, through April 30, 2020. Participants wereevaluated using self‑constructed and self‑administered personal and professional hardship and fearchecklist specifically developed for this study. The 9‑item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‑9)Depression Scale and 7‑item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and PHQ‑15 were used to assessthe depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms.RESULTS: Fear had a remarkable impact on 80.7% of responders. Among the participants, 40.5%,24.5%, and 30.6% reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms, respectively.Somatic symptoms were significantly associated with gender (P = 0.000). Work setting was significantlyassociated with depression (P = 0.011) and anxiety symptoms (P = 0.001). Concern, worry, and feardue to COVID‑19 were significantly associated with depression (P = 0.000), anxiety (P = 0.033), andsomatic symptoms (P = 0.009). There was a positive correlation between depression and anxietysymptoms (P = 0.01) and between age and somatic symptoms (P = 0.5).CONCLUSIONS: This group reported a high level of depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms.Female dental professionals and private practitioners had more depression, anxiety, and somaticsymptoms. Immediate and special intervention is needed for this group. Further exploration into thenature and its effects of the psychological symptoms may be required.

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Survey COVID‑19 among the homeless residents of Isin camp in Bandar Abbas in South of Iran

. Elham Ahmadizadeh Fini; . Ali Asadian; . Ahmad Sotoudeh; . Mohammad Hadadian; . Abdoljabar Zakeri; . Masoud Dadras

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: One way to reduce the burden of early detection of COVID‑19 disease is invulnerable and high‑risk groups. The aim of this study was to diagnose and evaluate the disease ...  Read More BACKGROUND: One way to reduce the burden of early detection of COVID‑19 disease is invulnerable and high‑risk groups. The aim of this study was to diagnose and evaluate the disease inthe homeless in Southern Iran Bandar Abbas.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The target group of this study was 234 homeless people. Censussampling included all homeless residents of Isin camp Bandar Abbas. People were individuallyexamined, and their information was recorded. COVID‑19 sampling was done for all as outpatientsthis year.RESULTS: Eight percent of people were able to answer the questions of awareness about symptoms,ways of transmission, and ways of prevention of COVID‑19 disease. Nine percent of the homelesspeople in the target group stated that they used to wash their hands before settling in the camp. Sixpercent of homeless people stated that they used face masks before settling in the camp. Fifteenparticipants showed similar symptoms to COVID‑19, yet their test result was negative. However, sixpeople who were asymptomatic ended up afflicted. The mean duration of time (since the emergenceof symptoms to the sampling date) was 3 days. The minimum duration of time from the emergenceof symptoms to the sampling date was 3 h, and the maximum time was 7 days.CONCLUSION: Considering the spread of the disease, certain social measures need to be taken insociety to help take care of these people and transfer them from streets to safe places and provide fortheir essentials. Diagnostic tests should be done periodically among these people at regular intervals.

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