Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Online classes versus traditional classes? Comparison during COVID‑19

. Sanjana Kumari; . Hitender Gautam; . Neha Nityadarshini; . Bimal Kumar Das; . Rama Chaudhry

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Nowadays, the use of Internet with e‑learning resources anytime and anywhereleads to interaction possibilities among teachers and students from different parts of the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Nowadays, the use of Internet with e‑learning resources anytime and anywhereleads to interaction possibilities among teachers and students from different parts of the world. Itis becoming increasingly pertinent that we exploit the Internet technologies to achieve the mostbenefits in the education.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study compares the difference between traditional classroomand e‑learning in the educational environment. Medical undergraduate students of our institution wereenrolled to compare between the online versus traditional method of teaching through questionnaire.RESULTS: Forty percent of students found the online lecture material difficult to understand. 42.6%of respondents found it difficult to clear the doubts in online teaching; 64.4% of the participantsbelieved that they have learned more in a face‑to‑face learning.CONCLUSION: In this study, we concluded that online mode offers flexibility on timing and delivery.Students can even download the content, notes, and assignment. Despite all the advantagesoffered, there is a general consensus that no technology can replace face‑to‑face teaching in realbecause in this, there will be visual as well as verbal discussion. Looking at the uncertainty of thecurrent scenario, it is difficult to predict how long online classes will have to continue. Hence, it is ofparamount importance that we assess the effectiveness of online classes and consequently takemeasures to ensure proper delivery of content to students, especially in a skilled field like medicine,so we concluded that face‑to‑face learning is of utmost importance in medical institutions.

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Challenges in the clinical education environment during the outbreak of COVID‑19: Development and psychometric testing

. Leili Yekefallah; . Peyman Namdar; . Mahya Shafaei; . Rahman Panahi; . Leila Dehghankar

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic poses unique physical and emotional challenges in providingclinical education. Failure to identify the challenges and problems that students face in ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic poses unique physical and emotional challenges in providingclinical education. Failure to identify the challenges and problems that students face in the clinicallearning environment hinders their effective learning and growth. Consequently, the progress oftheir skills is affected. The aim of this study was to develop a challenge in the clinical educationenvironment of medical students during the outbreak of COVID‑19 questionnaire and to test itspsychometric properties.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is part of a larger study that was conducted using acombined consecutive method in Qazvin. In the first stage, a phenomenological study was performedwith van Manen’s method by interviewing 12 students at Qazvin University. To extract the items ofthe tool in the second stage, the concept was defined. Ultimately, the psychometric properties ofthe questionnaire were evaluated with face validity, content validity (quantitative and qualitative),construct validity (exploratory factor analysis), internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha), and test–retestreliability (intraclass correlation coefficient).RESULTS: The initial tool had 70 questions. After validation, 53 items remained in the finalquestionnaire. Four extracted dimensions were as follows: “Inadequate professional competency,”“Inefficient clinical planning” and “outcomes of learning‑teaching activities,” and “the challengesrelated to the stigma of medical staff.” Cronbach’s alpha for the whole questionnaire was0.98 (range: 0.87–0.98). The test–retest (intraclass correlation coefficient) reliability was0.98 (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: According to the obtained results, if the items of “Inadequate professionalcompetency,” “Inefficient clinical planning” and “outcomes of learning‑teaching activities,” and “thechallenges related to the stigma of medical staff,” the challenges of students’ clinical education canbe reduced during the COVID‑19 outbreak.

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Perception and factors affecting practice of preventive measures of coronavirus disease among nurses in tertiary health institutions in Anambra state, southeast Nigeria

. Linda C. Odikpo; . Vera I. Onyekaonwu; . Anulika J. Afonne

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a contagious disease without any treatment, vaccine, or immunity,which the only way out is the practice of preventive measures. This article assessed the perceptionand ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a contagious disease without any treatment, vaccine, or immunity,which the only way out is the practice of preventive measures. This article assessed the perceptionand factors influencing the practice of preventive measures to COVID‑19 among nurses in AnambraState, Nigeria. The study objectives include to determine the perception of nurses toward COVID‑19and to determine factors that influence the practice of preventive measures to COVID‑19 amongnurses in tertiary hospitals in Anambra State.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The design for the study was descriptive cross‑sectional surveyconducted among 344 nurses in the two tertiary institutions.RESULTS: Three hundred and three (88.1%) nurses had no formal training on COVID‑19 protocol.They have a good perception of the disease as, among others, they (165 [48.0%]) see it to be highlycontagious, 207 (60.2%) can recognize symptoms easily, 168 (48.8%) believed that COVID‑19 couldbe handled professionally based on their experience, 155 (45.1%) responded that there is no vaccineyet for the disease, and 200 (58.1%) responded that patients should not hide their symptoms and travelhistory to avoid infecting other people. The result on the false benefits has 323 (93.9%) who respondedthat COVID‑19 preventive measures will predispose one to the disease, 319 (92.7%) who respondedthat the preventive measures will not slow the spread of the disease, 288 (83.7) who respondedthat it is independent of normalcy returning to areas affected, and 327 (95.1%) who responded thatCOVID‑19 preventive measures are among the effective ways to mitigate the disease and enhancelife sustainability. Some work‑related/institutional and disease‑specific factors influence their practiceof preventive measures to COVID‑19. Such factors include the time to use personal protectiveequipment (PPE) in an emergency (170 [49.4%]), remembering to use PPE (158 [45.9%]), insufficientnursing staff during a shift (158 [43.0%]), and too many responsibilities during a shift (178 [51.7%]).CONCLUSION: With the increasing death as a result of COVID‑19, of which health workers are notimmune to, it is essential to annihilate all negative factors that may impede the accurate practicesof the preventive measures and also support the nurses with the necessary tools and knowledge tomitigate their exposure to the disease.

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Medical students’ perspective on online teaching during pandemic: Experience from a Government Medical College in Uttarakhand, India

. Pooja Sharma Kala; . Naveen Thapliyal; . Hari Shankar Pandey; . A. R. Piyush; . Sonam Maheshwari; . Vikram Singh Chaudhary

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic has forced medical education to undergo suddenmetamorphosis from the traditional face‑to‑face education to distance online learning. This transitionwas ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 pandemic has forced medical education to undergo suddenmetamorphosis from the traditional face‑to‑face education to distance online learning. This transitionwas dealt with a lot of infrastructure and technical difficulties from both teacher and learner ends,especially in a developing country like India. This study was conducted with the aim of analyzingstudents’ perspective and problems faced in the live online teaching.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective longitudinal study conducted on medicalstudents enrolled in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgerycourses at a government medical college located in hilly state Uttarakhand, India. Clearance fromthe institutional ethical committee was obtained. The students were invited to voluntarily participate inonline survey by filling Google Forms which was E‑mailed as well as shared in social media platform.A total of 237 medical students participated. The first survey was conducted at the time of initiationof online mode of teaching, during May 1–7, 2020, and second, after completion of 6 months ofregular online teaching, during November 1–7, 2020. The questionnaire comprised initial sectionon demographic details and consent followed by 27 and 30 sets of statements pertaining to onlinemedical education experience in the first and second questionnaires, respectively. A 5‑point Likertscale was used. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. Chi‑square test was applied forassociation, and P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: A total of 237 students participated in the study. The response rate was 52.7%. Majority ofrespondents had suitable devices (89.1%) and Internet facilities (62%) for online classes. The studentsaccepted the new method of teaching very well, but for practical sessions and clinics, traditionalclasses were necessary. Long screen time, lack of student–teacher interaction, and interaction withpeers were major concerns of students. However, over the study period, the availability of resources,friendliness toward technology, and inclination toward virtual classes increased.CONCLUSIONS: The pandemic has introduced to a new normal where online teaching cannot beignored. Despite challenges faced during online learning, 65.5% of students preferred hybrid teachingin future for delivering medical education. Acceptance for online education by students increasedover time in the study.

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A nationwide cross‑sectional study to assess the impact of COVID‑19 on surgical residency programs in India

. Harkirat Singh Talwar; . Tushar Aditya Narain; . Vikas Kumar Panwar; . Ankur Mittal; . Arup Kumar Mandal

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic with its plenitude of hardships has been a challenge forresidents in training. Besides the fear of contracting the disease, the complete reconfiguration ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic with its plenitude of hardships has been a challenge forresidents in training. Besides the fear of contracting the disease, the complete reconfiguration ofhospital services has severely affected the surgical residency programs across India. The currentstudy highlights the lacunae that have arisen in the residency programs and design appropriatesolutions to reframe the remaining part of the surgical training.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is an observational study based on a questionnairesurvey done in November 2020 aimed at gauging the mood and perspective of residents acrossIndia pursuing surgical residency programs on how the pandemic has impacted various domains oftheir residency namely surgical training, clinical skills, research, academic curriculum, and mentalhealth. The analysis was performed using an Internet‑based program.RESULTS: Seventy‑eight percent of residents felt that they have lost crucial months of surgical training.Impact on clinical skills was reported by 73.9% of residents. Almost half of the residents (49.1%)believed that there has been a definite increase in research activities and 81.7% believed that theacademic curriculum was affected during the past 6 months. Furthermore, 86% of respondentsadmitted to have had a profound impact on their mental health as a result of the pandemic.CONCLUSION: Formulating reform policies in the current residency programs is paramount to trainthe current and future generation of surgeons. Whereas personal safety and wellness of the residentsis paramount during these times, residency training via digital medical education and various otherinnovative ways needs to continue.

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Satisfaction with nursing care and its related factors in patients with COVID‑19: A descriptive correlational study

. Naser Parizad; . Rasoul Goli; . Roshanak Mirzaee; . Rahim Baghaie; . Hossein Habibzadeh

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Patients’ satisfaction is a fundamental factor in the quality of nursing care. Theemergence of the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‑19) and the highly contagious ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Patients’ satisfaction is a fundamental factor in the quality of nursing care. Theemergence of the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‑19) and the highly contagious viruscan affect nursing care by increasing the number of care‑seekers.This study aimed to determinethe patients’ satisfaction and related factors in patients with COVID‑19 hospitalized in TaleghaniHospital, Urmia‑Iran, in 2020.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, correlational study was conducted on 196 patientswith COVID‑19 hospitalized in Taleghani Hospital, Urmia. Purposive convenient sampling was usedto recruit participants. Study participants completed Patient Satisfaction Instrument and demographicsquestionnaires. Data were analyzed with the SPSS software version 25.0.RESULTS: The majority of patients (68.9%) were moderately satisfied with nursing care. Basedon Pearson Correlation Analysis, only residential status had a significant inverse relationship withsatisfaction level in patients with COVID‑19 (r = −0.0238, P = 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: The patients’ satisfaction with nursing care was mostly at a moderate level. Thus,there is a need to educate health personnel and nurses in particular and motivate them to haveactive participation in achieving patients’ satisfaction with COVID‑19. Notably, only the institutes thattake patients’ satisfaction as a top priority can succeed in a competitive market of health services.

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Potential vaccine hesitancy regarding COVID‑19 vaccines in Kashmiri population

. Syed Najmul Ain; . Rabia Ahmad; . Reyana Qulsum; . Mohamad Azhar Gilani

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: India is all set to begin vaccination against COVID‑19. A good number of peopleare falling prey to anti‑vaccination campaigns, and therefore, some amount of vaccine ...  Read More BACKGROUND: India is all set to begin vaccination against COVID‑19. A good number of peopleare falling prey to anti‑vaccination campaigns, and therefore, some amount of vaccine hesitancymust have developed. The primary objective of the study was to find the level of potential COVID‑19vaccine hesitancy in Kashmiri population.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross‑sectional study conducted in the valley of Kashmir.A predesigned questionnaire was shared online. The participation of respondents was voluntary.Exclusions were made on account of residence outside Kashmir valley, duplicate forms, and wronginformation. The data were entered into Microsoft Excel 2010 and analyzed using SPSS version 23.RESULTS: A total of 487 respondents were included. About 67% of the participants were in the agegroup of ≤30 years, 55% female, 54% rural, and 16% had ever been COVID‑19 positive. About14% of the participants were completely hesitant about receiving the COVID‑19 vaccine, whereas40% were unsure if they will accept the vaccination. The main reason for the total nonacceptance ofthe vaccine was the doubts about the safety of COVID‑19 vaccines (67%). Urban people were morelikely to be hesitant to the vaccine than rural people (odds ratio [OR] 1.845, confidence interval CI1.022 to 3.333). Those who were ever COVID‑19 positive were 3.3 times more likely to say “no” toCOVID‑19 vaccination than those who were never positive.CONCLUSION: Strategic steps must be taken to minimize the vaccine hesitancy associated withCOVID‑19 vaccination. Authorities should direct efforts toward vaccine education, creating awarenessamong people about the importance of COVID‑19 vaccination.

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Investigating preventive health behaviors against COVID‑19 in elementary school students’ parents: A cross‑sectional study from Tehran – Capital of Iran

. Maryam Bagherzadeh; . Leili Salehi; . Zohreh Mahmoodi

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Parents act as a role model for children in showing health behaviors. This studyinvestigated factors affecting the preventive behavior in elementary school students’ ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Parents act as a role model for children in showing health behaviors. This studyinvestigated factors affecting the preventive behavior in elementary school students’ parents basedon protection motivation theory (PMT).MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in Tehran (Iran) in 2020.Multistage sampling was used to choose 660 elementary school students’ parents. The data collectioninstrument was a multi‑sectional questionnaire, including sections on demographic characteristics,PMT constructs, self‑reported health, and information sources related to COVID‑19. In this study,descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and analytical statistical methods (Pearsoncorrelation and path analysis) were used to analyze the data. The range of Cronbach’s alpha of thestudy instrument varied from 0.71 to 0.97.RESULTS: The results of the current study revealed significant association between all PMTconstructs and preventive behaviors. Knowledge from both direct and indirect paths was relatedto preventive behaviors (B = 0.76). Preventive behaviors had the strongest, direct relationship withage (B = 0.76). Based on the final fitted model, knowledge had the greatest impact on preventivebehaviors through indirect and direct routes.CONCLUSION: Knowledge was the most important variable which influenced preventive behavior,and it should be noticed in prevention programs.

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Epidemiology and factors associated with COVID‑19 outbreak‑related deaths in patients admitted to medical centers of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences

. Hamidreza Khankeh; . Mehrdad Farrokhi; . Hassan Talebi Ghadicolaei; . Sadegh Ahmadi Mazhin; . Juliet Roudini; . Yazdan Mohsenzadeh; . Zoya Hadinejad

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The first case of COVID‑19 was reported in Iran on February 19, 2020, in Qom. SinceMazandaran is one of the high‑risk provinces with many patients and deaths, this study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The first case of COVID‑19 was reported in Iran on February 19, 2020, in Qom. SinceMazandaran is one of the high‑risk provinces with many patients and deaths, this study was conductedto investigate the epidemiological characteristics of COVID‑19‑related deaths in Mazandaran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this descriptive study, demographic information and clinicalfindings in patients who died following COVID‑19 in the medical centers of Mazandaran University ofMedical Sciences from February 8, 2020, to October 10, 2020, were extracted. Data were analyzedby using SPSS 21. Logistic regression was used to compare the data. P < 0.05 was considered asthe significance level.RESULTS: Out of a total of 34,039 patients admitted during the 8 months, 2907 patients died. Ofthese, 1529 (52%) were male, and the rest were female. In terms of age, 10 cases in the age groupof fewer than 15 years, 229 cases in the age group of 15–44 years, 864 patients in the age group of45–64 years, and 1793 people in the age group of 65 years and over died. 2206 people (more than75%) by personal visit referred to medical centers. The mortality rate was more than 8 cases per 100hospitalized patients. Men were 16% more likely to die from COVID‑19 than women.DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Older adults over 65 have the highest incidence and death ratedue to this disease. The incidence rate was higher in women, and the death rate was higher in men,which differs from the national pattern.

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Challenges faced by nurses while caring for COVID‑19 patients: A qualitative study

. Marjan Vejdani; . Samira Foji; . Sara Jamili; . Raha Salehabadi; . Amin Adel; . Zahra Ebnehoseini; . Shapour Badiee Aval; . Ali Asghar Anjidani; . Hossein Ebrahimipour

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: In the COVID‑19 crisis, nurses are directly involved in patient care, so they facemany challenges. This study was performed to determine the challenges faced by nurses ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: In the COVID‑19 crisis, nurses are directly involved in patient care, so they facemany challenges. This study was performed to determine the challenges faced by nurses whilecaring for COVID‑19 patients in Iran in 2020.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative, content analysis was conducted in Iran on ten nursesdirectly involved in the fight against the corona epidemic, selected through a purposeful samplingstrategy. Data were collected through deep interviews consisting of open questions. All the interviewswere recorded, and immediately after each interview, it was transcribed into written form. The datawere analyzed using MAXQDA software.RESULTS: All the challenges could be classified into three main categories and 17 subcategories.The main categories were miss‑management in controlling corona conditions, mental and physicalcomplications and challenges in corona work conditions, and lack of sufficient workforce.CONCLUSION: Hospital managers and authorities play a significant role in meeting the financialneeds and requirements of nurses, and can minimize the job discrimination prevalent at medicalcenters through providing financial and nonfinancial incentives for nurses. Moreover, the findingsof the present study can help hospital managers and authorities to gain a better understanding ofthe experiences of nurses, and to take the necessary measures to obviate the challenges faced bynurses in public health emergencies.

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Distance learning strategies in medical education during COVID‑19: A systematic review

. Soleiman Ahmady; . Per Kallestrup; . Mohammad Mehdi Sadoughi; . Marzieh Katibeh; . Masomeh Kalantarion; . Mitra Amini; . Nasrin Khajeali

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  The current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) across the world forced universitiesto suspend learning to limit the spread of the virus. Many medical schools have shifted ...  Read More The current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) across the world forced universitiesto suspend learning to limit the spread of the virus. Many medical schools have shifted to onlineeducation as an information delivery mechanism where the educator and learner are separated inspace and potentially also in time. This systematic review aims to explore and understand the varietyof distance learning strategies in medical students in the contexts of COVID‑19. A systematic reviewwas conducted in Web of Sciences, PubMed, Educational Resources and Information Center, andScopus from December 2019 to July 2020. Eight sets of terminology were used, combining “Distancelearning” AND “Medical education” AND “Pandemic.” Studies were reviewed independently by tworeviewers. Data were extracted and quality appraised using QualSyst tools, and synthesized byperforming thematic analysis. A total of 473 articles were identified after removing duplicates and314 records were screened, of which 125 were included in this study. The primary articles were 52primarily qualitative articles. Five learning strategies consisted of technology‑enhanced learning (TEL),simulation‑based learning, technology‑based clinical education, mobile learning, and blended learning.Tools, methods, and learning resources associated with these five learning strategies were extractedfrom the articles. Our review highlights that TEL and simulation‑based learning were more commonlyused than others in distance learning in medical education during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Thesestrategies have the potential to improve learners’ level of knowledge and performance throughmaking online learning resources such as Massive Open Online Courses, virtual clinical cases, andblended sources accessible.

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The mediating role of compassion in the relationship between COVID‑19 anxiety syndrome and COVID‑19 burnout

. Esmaeil Mousavi Asl; . Hatam Boostani; . Forouzan Behrouzian; . Hamzeh Rostami

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The coronavirus has caused fundamental changes in our way of life, leading to awave of psychological distress associated with the COVID‑19 epidemic, including stress, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The coronavirus has caused fundamental changes in our way of life, leading to awave of psychological distress associated with the COVID‑19 epidemic, including stress, anxiety,perceived threats, and fear.Considering the psychological consequences of COVID‑19, the presentstudy was conducted with the aim of mediating the role of compassion in the relationship betweenCOVID‑19 anxiety syndrome and COVID‑19 burnout.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The design of the present study was descriptive correlation. Thepresent study population included all students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciencesin the academic year 2020. Two hundred and fifty‑one students were selected and completed theCOVID‑19 Anxiety Syndrome Questionnaire, Compassion Scale, and COVID‑19 Burnout Scale.Pearson correlation coefficient test and structural equation model were performed using SPSSversion 18 and LISREL 8.8.RESULTS: The results showed that COVID‑19 burnout had a positive and significant relationshipwith the overall score of anxiety syndrome (r = 0.42, P = 0.01), while it has a negative and significantrelationship with compassion (r = −0.37, P = 0.01). Compassion also has a significant negativerelationship with anxiety syndrome (r = −0.35, P = 0.01). In addition, the results of path analysisshowed that compassion plays a mediating role in the relationship between COVID‑19 anxietysyndrome and COVID‑19 burnout.CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the present study, it can be said that compassion actsas a protective factor against the negative effects of anxiety syndrome. Therefore, this factor canbe considered in the development of prevention and treatment programs for burnout caused byCOVID‑19.

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Performance analysis of data mining algorithms for diagnosing COVID‑19

. Raoof Nopour; . Hadi Kazemi‑Arpanahi; . Mostafa Shanbehzadeh; . Akbar Azizifar

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: An outbreak of atypical pneumonia termed COVID‑19 has widely spread all overthe world since the beginning of 2020. In this regard, designing a prediction system for the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: An outbreak of atypical pneumonia termed COVID‑19 has widely spread all overthe world since the beginning of 2020. In this regard, designing a prediction system for the earlydetection of COVID‑19 is a critical issue in mitigating virus spread. In this study, we have appliedselected machine learning techniques to select the best predictive models based on their performance.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 435 suspicious cases with COVID‑19 which were recordedfrom the Imam Khomeini Hospital database between May 9, 2020 and December 20, 2020, havebeen taken into consideration. The Chi‑square method was used to determine the most importantfeatures in diagnosing the COVID‑19; eight selected data mining algorithms including multilayerperceptron (MLP), J‑48, Bayesian Net (Bayes Net), logistic regression, K‑star, random forest,Ada‑boost, and sequential minimal optimization (SMO) were applied in data mining. Finally, the mostappropriate diagnostic model for COVID‑19 was obtained based on comparing the performance ofthe selected algorithms.RESULTS: As the result of using the Chi‑square method, 21 variables were identified as themost important diagnostic criteria in COVID‑19. The results of evaluating the eight selected datamining algorithms showed that the J‑48 with true‑positive rate = 0.85, false‑positive rate = 0.173,precision = 0.85, recall = 0.85, F‑score = 0.85, Matthews Correlation Coefficient = 0.68, and areaunder the receiver operator characteristics = 0.68, respectively, had the higher performance thanthe other algorithms.CONCLUSION: The results of evaluating the performance criteria showed that the J‑48 can beconsidered as a suitable computational prediction model for diagnosing COVID‑19 disease.

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Behavioral drivers and observation of face covering use during the COVID‑19 pandemic among outpatients and visitors at a tertiary hospital in Thailand

. Nanta Kliangkird; . Sommanas Naknual; . Tippawan Liabsuetrakul; . Wit Wichaidit

Volume 11, Issue 10 , November 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Use of face covering may help prevent COVID‑19 transmission. However, thereis a lack of data on behavioral drivers of face covering use and compliance to mandatory facecovering ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Use of face covering may help prevent COVID‑19 transmission. However, thereis a lack of data on behavioral drivers of face covering use and compliance to mandatory facecovering policy at health facilities. This study aimed to describe behavioral drivers and observedface covering use among outpatients and visitors at a tertiary hospital in Southern Thailand duringthe COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a hospital‑based, cross‑sectional study in June 2020.We developed, pilot‑tested and finalized an interview questionnaire in Thai. We also developed astructured observation questionnaire. Two trained enumerators recruited outpatients and visitors atthe hospital’s internal medicine outpatient department (OPD), surgery OPD, and the pharmacy usingthe convenience sampling. Another enumerator conducted structured observation of face coveringuse among outpatients and visitors when interviews were not taking place. We analyzed the datausing the descriptive statistics.RESULTS: A total of 206 persons that our interview enumerators approached agreed toparticipate (n = 206; response rate = 62.4%). Nearly all participants stated that the use of facecovering was beneficial in preventing COVID‑19 infection from others and preventing others from beinginfected (94.0% and 98.0%, respectively). Common barriers included inconvenience in breathing andspeaking (19.7%) and pain at the ears (9.6%). Structured observation of 408 outpatients and visitorsshowed that nearly everyone (>99%) had a face covering on their person, most of whom (94.6%)covered both their nose and mouth.CONCLUSION: We found near‑universal perceived benefits and compliance, but variations inperceived barriers, cues, and social norms for the use of face coverings. The findings of this studycan inform future intervention programs on face covering use promotion.

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Mental health of the people of northern Iran during the quarantine time of 2020 following the coronavirus epidemic

. Fereshteh Araghian Mojarad; . Mohammad Ali Heidari Gorji; . Hamid Salehiniya; . Tahereh Yaghoubi

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus (COVID‑19) is an infectious respiratory disease. Quarantine is oftenaccompanied by unpleasant experiences for those who go through it. The aim of this study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus (COVID‑19) is an infectious respiratory disease. Quarantine is oftenaccompanied by unpleasant experiences for those who go through it. The aim of this study was todetermine the mental health status of people during quarantine in northern Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted during the quarantineperiod of coronavirus. Conventional sampling was done from March 6 to April 6. Six hundred andforty‑two individuals were included. Inclusion criteria were living in Sari and being home quarantinedduring the corona outbreak. Exclusion criteria included hospitalization history due to corona andunwillingness to participate in the study. In this study, the General Health Questionnaire‑28 was usedonline to collect the required data. To analyze the data, descriptive and inferential statistics (t‑test,analysis of variance, and correlation coefficient) were used.RESULTS: In this study, individuals were included in the investigation with a mean age of38.74 ± 11.89 (ranged from 15 to 73). Most of the participants were female (72.85%) andmarried (71.34%). According to the results, 21.5% of the participants had poor mental health.Mean mental health scores have a statistically significant relationship with gender, marital status,education, occupation, quarantine period, patients with corona, and exposure to a patient withcorona (P ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, a negative correlation coefficient was observed between age andmental health score (correlation coefficient = −0.31, significance >0.001).CONCLUSION: The average score of mental health has a significant relationship with gender, maritalstatus, education, occupation, quarantine period, corona, and exposure to a patient with corona.Given the high prevalence of mental disorders in people during the COVID‑19 epidemic, educatingpeople and planning to reduce the psychological effects of the epidemic can be helpful.

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Virtual learning during the COVID‑19 pandemic: What are the barriers and how to overcome them?

. Sujata Yadneshwar Khobragade; . Htoo Htoo Kyaw Soe; . Yadneshwar Sudam Khobragade; . Adinegara Lutfi bin Abas

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-10

Abstract

  CONTEXT: Virtual learning is not without challenges. It can cause stress, lack of motivation, and socialisolation. Due to COVID‑19 pandemic, our college shifted from face‑to‑face ...  Read More CONTEXT: Virtual learning is not without challenges. It can cause stress, lack of motivation, and socialisolation. Due to COVID‑19 pandemic, our college shifted from face‑to‑face to virtual teaching–learningstyle. the aim was to find out the barriers in virtual learning among medical students and providesolutions to overcome them.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among 3rd‑ and 4th‑yearBachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery students in 2020. Prevalidated electronic survey formson institutional barrier, technical barrier, and individual barrier were sent to students, 160 studentsresponded. SPSS version 12 was used to calculate descriptive statistics and independent t‑test.RESULTS: The students had the highest mean score in individual barrier(mean: 2.82 [standard deviation (SD): 0.72]) followed by institutional barrier (mean: 2.79 [SD: 0.74])and technological barrier (mean: 2.72 [SD: 0.75]). Regarding technological barriers, 38.6% of thestudents agreed difficulty in procurement of the laptop and 66.4% faced slow Internet connection.Regarding institutional barriers, 75.9% were stressed to join one lecture to another lecture as thelectures were continuous, 69.6% had limited opportunity to interact with lecturers, and 62.7% hadpoor communication between lecturers and students. Regarding individual barriers, 74.1% of thestudents were not motivated for online learning, 71.5% of the students could not learn as well asthey were in the classroom, and 58.2% disagreed taking online courses in future.CONCLUSION: Low motivation, communication, Internet connectivity, and technical problems werethe main barriers. Smaller size class, highly motivated and well‑trained lecturers, and interactivelectures may help in breaking the barriers of virtual learning.

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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices toward COVID‑19 among Persian Birth Cohort Participants

. Majid Mirmohammadkhani; . Maryam Bemanalizadeh; . Maryam Yazdi; . Parvin Goli; . Fatemeh Mohebpour; . Elham Saffarieh; . Navid Danaei; . Fatemeh Paknazar; . Seyede Shahrbanoo Daniali; . Roya Kelishadi

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID‑19 play an importantrole in controlling the outbreak. The present study aimed to investigate the KAP of a group ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID‑19 play an importantrole in controlling the outbreak. The present study aimed to investigate the KAP of a group of womentoward COVID‑19 during the second wave of the outbreak in Iran.METHOD AND MATERIAL: A cross‑sectional survey of 2862 women was conducted in May and June2020 in two centers of Persian birth cohort . The survey instrument was a self‑reported questionnaireMultivariable linear regression analysis to identify factors associated with knowledge and practice.toward COVID‑19 and multinomial logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated withattitudes. Unstandardized regression coefficients (β) and odds ratios and their 95% confidenceintervals were used to quantify the associations between variables and KAP.RESULT: Good knowledge and optimistic attitudes toward the successful control of COVID‑19 wasseen among participants. Overall, about 57.3% (1640), 41.1% (1176), and 1.6% (46) of respondentswere categorized as low (score <50%), moderate (score: 50%–80%), and high (score > 80%) properpractice, respectively. Eighty‑five individuals with COVID‑19 experience (3.0%) had lower knowledgescore (79.91 ± 17.93 vs. 83.81 ± 13.88, P < 0.001) and lower proper practice score (40.22 ± 16.57 vs.47.96 ± 16.15, respectively, P < 0.001) compared to those who were not infected. A higher level ofknowledge was associated with appropriate practice in both groups of positive attitudes (χ2 = 32.23,P < 0.001) and negative attitudes (χ2 = 31.49, P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: This survey recorded good knowledge and relatively good attitudes among women.Special health policies plan should be taken for target populations among women during the COVID‑19pandemic.

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An altmetric analysis of online news on India’s first indigenous COVID‑19 vaccine

. Abhishek Royal; . Sameena Ahmad; . Athar Qureshi; . Vishal Chaudhary; . Tamanna Jindal; . Vaibhav Kumar; . Kedar Mehta

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

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Covaxin is the first indigenous vaccine developed in India against COVID‑19. Thepurpose of this study was to analyze the news stories on Covaxin published in the online ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Covaxin is the first indigenous vaccine developed in India against COVID‑19. Thepurpose of this study was to analyze the news stories on Covaxin published in the online mediabetween two statements issued by Indian Council for Medical Research on 2nd and 4th July for theircontent, quality of information, and reporting standards.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search was performed on Google to identify the newsstories related to Covaxin in the English language published between these two statements. Theselected news stories were subjected to content analysis and reviewed using the screening pointsdeveloped through a consultation by two independent experts using ten prevalidated criteria forhealth news review. The data were analyzed in MS Excel and StataMP14.RESULTS: The final analysis included 24 news stories. The mean and median score of the newsstories is 10.71 and 12 (out of 20), respectively, with a score ranging from 2 to 17. The stories didnot promote disease or vaccine mongering (100%), adequately mentioned the true novelty of thevaccine (95.8%), and source of the information (83.3%). However, they mostly failed to mentionthe information on costs, research data related to benefits, and harms and quality of the availableevidence.CONCLUSION: There is a lack of reporting of detailed analysis about the methodology of developmentof the vaccine and limitations in its research design by health journalists. It is important to trainjournalists on proper reporting of health news to improve its quality in Indian media.

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Emotional well‑being of dentists and the effect of lockdown during the COVID‑19 pandemic: A nationwide study

. Ashish Sharma; . Kumar Gaurav Chhabra; . Sweta Surana Bhandari; . Garima Poddar; . Subha Soumya Dany; . Chaya Chhabra; . Akanksha Goyal

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Lockdown in India might have adverse effects on the emotional health of the dentalprofessionals; hence, the aim of the present study was to determine the impact of various ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Lockdown in India might have adverse effects on the emotional health of the dentalprofessionals; hence, the aim of the present study was to determine the impact of various factorson emotional well‑being of dental professionals due to the effect of lockdown during COVID‑19.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a cross‑sectional, descriptive, questionnaire study conducted ondentists in India during April 2020. Sampling technique was convenient sampling, and sampling framewas all the dental professionals in India. The questionnaire was prepared online using Google Forms,and the link was generated which was shared among as many dentists accessible as possible, withthe help of message, mails, and WhatsApp. The questionnaire consists of questions on Demographicdetails, practice, and emotional well‑being. A total of 1844 dental professionals in 14 states in Indiaresponded. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS version no. 20. IBM SPSS version 20.0(IBM; Armonk, New York USA) Descriptive statistics and multinomial regression test was applied.RESULTS: Majority of study participants (1096[59.4%]) belonged to age group of 26–35years. Emotionalwell‑being score of 1206 (65.4%) dental professionals in the times of COVID‑19 outbreak was poorwith score between 26 and 78. It was assessed that males have significantly (P = 0.00**) (P < 0.001**)(**highly significant) poorer emotional well‑being 0.085 (0.829–1.429) compared to females. Marrieddental professionals − 0.023 (0.011–1.221) had significantly better (P = 0.05*) emotional well‑beingthan others.CONCLUSION: Emotional well‑being score of majority of dental professionals in the times ofCOVID‑19 outbreak was poor. Gender, marital status, socioeconomic status, years of experience,practicing in clinic, and average number of patients seen per month before lockdown have significantimpact on emotional wellbeing of dental professionals.

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Psychological impact of COVID‑19 on medical interns – Findings from a nationwide survey

. Chandrashekar B. Huded; . Smitha Lamiya Rasquinha; . Pradyumna Rao

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-13

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of health‑careworkers worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of health‑careworkers worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress in medicalinterns during the pandemic and examine the factors influencing it.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional online survey was conducted using snowballsampling among 764 medical interns across India, who were evaluated using the KesslerPsychological Distress Scale, Fear of COVID‑19 Scale, and semi‑structured questionnaires. Univariateanalysis was done using Chi‑square test, unpaired t‑test, and ANOVA, while multivariate analysiswas conducted using binary logistic regression.RESULTS: 57.5% of the interns reported psychological distress, with 39.8% having moderate‑to‑severedistress. Past consultation with a mental health professional (odds ratio [OR]: 2.15; 95% confidenceinterval [CI]: 1.42–3.26) and perceived lack of support from friends (OR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.33–3.99)and faculty (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.41–3.28) were the most significant predictors of distress. Fearof COVID‑19 was higher in interns who were female, were medically ill, were dissatisfied with thepandemic preparedness at the hospital, and perceived the faculty to be less approachable andsupportive. Majority of the interns felt that the pandemic had hampered their learning and wereworried about an extension to their internship and their performance in the postgraduate entranceexaminations.CONCLUSIONS: Psychological distress was highly prevalent among interns, with several workplacesand personal factors affecting the distress levels. Most interns perceived a negative impact of thepandemic on their learning and career. Addressing these issues could help alleviate the distressand bolster the mental health of interns.

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Competencies required for medical students to confront the COVID‑19 pandemic: A needs assessment study

. Ali Ardekani; . Zahra Rahimian; . Afrooz Feili; . Mitra Amini; . Parinaz Tabari; . Mahsa Moosavi

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) has turned attention to theessential competencies needed to confront pandemics for a physician. However, medical students,as ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) has turned attention to theessential competencies needed to confront pandemics for a physician. However, medical students,as future physicians, are not adequately trained for such a situation. This study aimed to determinethe essential competencies for a medical student to face the COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed this mixed‑method needs assessment study at ShirazUniversity of Medical Sciences in May–June 2020 in three steps: the first step was a brainstormingsession followed by a nominal group technique with the experts’ participation. The second stepwas determining the validity of competencies by calculating the content validity ratio. In the thirdand last step, three rounds of the modified Delphi technique were held with the participation of22 medical faculty members and 45 undergraduate medical students to reach a consensus aboutthe competencies utilizing quantitative analysis.RESULTS: A total of 30 key competencies essential for a medical student were obtained through thecurrent study. They were categorized into four major themes: (1) developing knowledge and abilitiesfor effective diagnosis and treatment of COVID‑19, (2) demonstrating safety principles correctly,(3) demonstrating effective behavior, and (4) determining the meta‑competencies.CONCLUSIONS: Although medical students will be the frontline physicians in the future pandemics, theyare not prepared to display the diversity of requisite skills to practice effectively and safely. This studyprovides essential competencies for medical students during the COVID‑19 pandemic and underlinesthe importance of a paradigm shift from traditional time‑based to competency‑based education.

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Factors contributing to distress among school and college‑going adolescents during COVID‑19 Lockdown: A cross‑sectional study conducted in Sibi Balochistan, Pakistan

. Muhammad Azam Awais; . Muhammad Minhaj Chaudhery; . Muhammad Sarfraz Khan; . Adam Umair Ashraf Butt; . Abdur Rehman Malik; . Muhammad Numair Khan; . Areeb Khalid; . Mohsin Mahmood; . Mohammad Talal Afzal; . Muhammad Haseeb Waseem

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, many countries have implemented nationwidelockdowns. While this leads to a decrease in disease transmission, there is a concurrent increase ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, many countries have implemented nationwidelockdowns. While this leads to a decrease in disease transmission, there is a concurrent increase inthe levels of psychological distress. To estimate the levels of psychological distress in school‑ andcollege‑going adolescents currently under lockdown and to determine the factors associated withthis psychological distress.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study conducted in Army Public School andCollege (APSAC) Sibi, Balochistan province of Pakistan between March and May 2020. Studentsof APSAC Sibi were enrolled in this research. Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Scale, GodinLeisure‑Time Exercise Questionnaire, and Kessler‑10 were used for data acquisition. Chi‑squareand t‑tests and univariate analysis (nonparametric test) were performed using the Statistical Packagefor the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 (IBM, Armonk, US).RESULTS: Out of 225 participants, 57.4% were studying at school. Sixty‑four percent of the participantswere likely to be suffering from psychological distress. There is a significant effect of physical activity,sleep duration, bedtime at night, screen‑time duration, and COVID‑19 positive family member on thelevels of distress. A moderate positive correlation was between psychological distress and bed‑time atnight (rho[223] = 0.328, P < 0.001) and screen time duration (rho[223] = 0.541, P < 0.001). A moderatenegative correlation of physical activity (rho[223] = −0.340, P < 0.001) and a weak negative correlationof sleep duration hours (rho[225] = −0.158, P = 0.018) was found with psychological distress levels.CONCLUSIONS: The COVID‑19 lockdown and pandemic have had a considerable psychologicalimpact on both school‑going and college‑going students, showing increased level of stress. A strongpublic health campaign along with mental and physical and social support programs are the needof the hour.

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Oral health practice and health‑related quality of life of a group of children during the early stage of the COVID‑19 pandemic in Istanbul

. Işıl Özgül Kalyoncu; . Gizem Özcan; . Betül Kargül

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: During the pandemic period of coronavirus disease, appropriate oral healthmanagement and disease prevention of children are very important for children’s oral and ...  Read More BACKGROUND: During the pandemic period of coronavirus disease, appropriate oral healthmanagement and disease prevention of children are very important for children’s oral and generalhealth. The aim of this study was to survey to better understand in children’s dental health and dietaryhabits and to learn about parents’ attitudes toward dental treatment and clinical factors associatedwith their QoL using the Turkish version of KIDSCREEN‑10 during the initial stage of the COVID‑19pandemic in the general public.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A two‑part questionnaire , namely Part 1 addressed topicsregarding changes in general and dental health, dietary habits of children under quarantine, andsociodemographic characteristics of the family and Part 2 impact of QoL was assessed by theKIDSCREEN‑10 scale with 10 questions. The questionnaire was sent online using WhatsApp to aconvenience sample of mothers with children between the age group of 8 and 18 years, who livedin Istanbul. Variables were statistically analyzed using the Student’s t‑test for independent samplesand Univariate F‑test, ANOVA according to the characteristics of variables which were analyzed.RESULTS: This study included 328 from 557 mothers with 58% respondent rate. The consumptionof fast food, packaged food, and carbonated beverages decreased during the COVID‑19 outbreak.Half of the mothers of children reported that they were anxious or fearful about their childrenvisiting dentists during the pandemic and 64.2% of the children missed routine dental visits. TheKIDSCREEN‑10 scores for 13 years old or older children were influenced more by the COVID‑19pandemic than those for the 8–12 years old, who had a better QoL (P = 0.008).CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study emphasize the importance of oral health and QoL ofchildren during the initial phase of the COVID‑19 outbreak. The general perception of QoL in thisgroup of Turkish children seemed to be substantially affected by COVID‑19 outbreak.

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Psychological effects of the COVID‑19 pandemic on dentistry: A systematic review study

. Niloufar Abedi

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  The outbreak of the COVID‑19 epidemic started in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing manypsychological and occupational effects for the medical staff, including dentists and all those ...  Read More The outbreak of the COVID‑19 epidemic started in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing manypsychological and occupational effects for the medical staff, including dentists and all those who workto promote oral health. The present systematic review study investigates the psychological causesand effects of the COVID‑19 epidemic outbreak on dentists.Systematic search was performed on validdatabases such as Science Direct, Web of Science (WoS), Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus. TheEnglish articles published from December 2019 to November 2020 were selected according to theinclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the articles was assessed using an existing checklist.Then, their full texts were reviewed to extract the necessary data. Finally, the data were summarized ina table.This systematic review study showed the emergence of psychological symptoms such as fear,anxiety, and stress are the three most common disorders in dentists and all those who work to promoteoral health as the medical staff. This pandemic has had occupational and economic consequencesfor dentists.In general, the research results indicated that the outbreak of COVID‑19 had affectedthe dental profession in two areas: (1) Psychological consequences: Reviewing the articles showedthat the essential psychological effects in the dental profession are the fear of infection by patients,anxiety, and stress, respectively. (2) Occupational effects: The second significant consequence of theCOVID‑19 outbreak was that due to fear and anxiety of getting infected with the virus in the dentalenvironment, containing particles and aerosols from patients’ saliva and blood, dentists had to limitdoing their jobs in the emergency room and sometimes even closing their offices. This issue maycause economic problems for their professions. There is also a need to allocate additional costs forthe provision of sanitary equipment.

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Psychiatric comorbidities among COVID‑19 survivors in North India: A cross‑sectional study

. Shabir Ahmad Dar; . Mohammad Maqbool Dar; . Shanoo Sheikh; . Inaamul Haq; . Aaliya Mohi Ud Din Azad; . Mehvish Mushtaq; . Naveed Nazir Shah; . Zaid Ahmad Wani

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease‑19 (COVID‑19) emerged from China and rapidly spreadto many other countries all over the world. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety,depression, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease‑19 (COVID‑19) emerged from China and rapidly spreadto many other countries all over the world. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety,depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and obsessive–compulsive (OC) symptoms amongCOVID‑19 survivors after their discharge from the COVID‑19 treatment center.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross‑sectional, hospital‑based study performed among119 COVID‑19 survivors. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to measureanxiety and depression. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)‑Checklist (PCL) and Brief OC Scalewere used to measure PTSD and OC symptoms. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferentialstatistics using the SPSS (IBM Corp. Released 2015 version 23.0).RESULTS: The mean anxiety, depression, and PTSD scores were, 7.12 ± 0.68, 8.08 ± 0.22, and19.78 ± 0.88, respectively. Based on cutoff scores, the prevalence of anxiety, depression, andPTSD among COVID‑19 survivors was n = 53, 44.54%; n = 73, 61.34%; and n = 30, 25.21%,respectively. Older COVID‑19 survivors (≥50 years) were more likely to show symptoms ofdepression and anxiety (P < 0.001) compared to younger ones. Furthermore, COVID‑19 survivorswho were ≥50 years of age experienced a greater level of PTSD compared to younger ones; similartrends were seen in those experiencing OC symptoms. In the present study, n = 98 (82.4%) wereobsessed with fears of contamination and an equal number had compulsive handwashing.CONCLUSION: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OC symptoms are common among the COVID‑19survivors and that underscores the need to diagnose and manage mental health morbidities amongthese survivors long after their recovery from COVID‑19.

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