Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health

Original Articles

An Important Strategy to Improve Adolescent Health Literacy: COVID-19 Modules in High School in Indonesia: Nurina Hasanatuludhhiyah, Visuddho Visuddho, Abdul Khairul Rizki Purba, Annette d’ Arqom, Ancah Caesarina Novi Marchianti; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(6):523-532. Published online November 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.113

211 View
25 Download

Abstract Summary PDF: Objectives
During the second coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) surge, cases increased sharply due to low awareness and compliance with measures to limit disease spread. Health literacy (HL) is an important component of public health initiatives, and schools are potential sources of health education to increase HL via the presentation of COVID-19 educational modules.
Methods
This cross-sectional study involved an online questionnaire administered to students from 5 high schools in Surabaya and Sidoarjo, Indonesia, 6-7 weeks after the start of government-issued directives restricting public gatherings. We collected data on each respondent’s age, gender, parental education, and socioeconomic variables. HL was determined by the Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents. We additionally measured their attitudes and behaviors related to preventing the spread of COVID-19. The students were asked if they watched the COVID-19 module at school, their feelings about vaccination, and preferred online sources of COVID-19-related information.
Results
Most of the 432 respondents had viewed COVID-19 modules at school. Module exposure was associated with significantly higher total and domain-specific HL and more positive attitudes toward government-issued COVID-19 restrictions on travel and public gatherings (p<0.05). However, behaviors to prevent COVID-19 spread and vaccine acceptance were not associated with module exposure. Most students chose social media as their source of COVID-19-related information.
Conclusions
Schools can provide information to increase adolescents’ HL and the public’s support for health initiatives to prevent or limit the spread of COVID-19.; Summary

Key Message
A cross-sectional study carried out on high school students during the second surge of COVID-19 in Indonesia revealed that they benefitted from the COVID-19 module. Students who viewed the module had higher scores on health literacy measures of adolescents (HELMA), had a more favorable attitude toward government-issued restrictive policies, and were more likely to have adequate health literacy, in regard to the ability to use health information. These imply schools as part of the public health response by providing education to increase adolescents’ health literacy and the public’s support for health initiatives to prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19.

Vaccination Status and In-hospital Mortality Among Adults With COVID-19 in Jakarta, Indonesia: A Retrospective Hospital-based Cohort Study: Hotma Martogi Lorensi Hutapea, Pandji Wibawa Dhewantara, Anton Suryatma, Raras Anasi, Harimat Hendarwan, Mondastri Korib Sudaryo, Dwi Gayatri; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(6):542-551. Published online October 30, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.360

271 View
25 Download

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
Prospective studies on vaccination status and mortality related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in low-resource settings are still limited. We assessed the association between vaccination status (full, partial, or none) and in-hospital mortality among COVID-19 patients at most hospitals in Jakarta, Indonesia during the Delta predomination wave.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study among hospitalized COVID-19 patients who met the study criteria (>18 years old and admitted for inpatient treatment because of laboratory-confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection). We linked individual-level data in the hospital admission database with vaccination records. Several socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were also analyzed. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to explore the association between vaccination status and in-hospital mortality in this patient group.
Results
In total, 40 827 patients were included in this study. Of these, 70% were unvaccinated (n=28 543) and 19.3% (n=7882) died during hospitalization. The mean age of the patients was 49 years (range, 35-59), 53.2% were female, 22.0% had hypertension, and 14.2% were treated in the intensive care unit, and the median hospital length of stay across the group was 9 days. Our study showed that the risk of in-hospital mortality among fully and partially vaccinated patients was lower than among unvaccinated adults (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40 to 0.47 and aHR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.64 to 0.77, respectively).
Conclusions
Vaccinated patients had fewer severe outcomes among hospitalized adults during the Delta wave in Jakarta. These features should be carefully considered by healthcare professionals in treating adults within this patient group.; Summary

Key Message
During the COVID-19 pandemic the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was dominating and challenging. Vaccination is one of many approaches to control the pandemic. We assessed the association between vaccination status and in-hospitalized mortality in COVID-19 patients. We found that vaccination status was associated with lower mortality, and fully vaccinated patients experienced lower risk of in-hospitalized mortality compared to partially vaccinated ones.

Healthcare Systems and COVID-19 Mortality in Selected OECD Countries: A Panel Quantile Regression Analysis: Jalil Safaei, Andisheh Saliminezhad; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(6):515-522. Published online October 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.162

169 View
12 Download

Abstract Summary PDF: Objectives
The pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has exerted an unprecedented impact on the health of populations worldwide. However, the adverse health consequences of the pandemic in terms of infection and mortality rates have varied across countries. In this study, we investigate whether COVID-19 mortality rates across a group of developed nations are associated with characteristics of their healthcare systems, beyond the differential policy responses in those countries.
Methods
To achieve the study objective, we distinguished healthcare systems based on the extent of healthcare decommodification. Using available daily data from 2020, 2021, and 2022, we applied quantile regression with non-additive fixed effects to estimate mortality rates across quantiles. Our analysis began prior to vaccine development (in 2020) and continued after the vaccines were introduced (throughout 2021 and part of 2022).
Results
The findings indicate that higher testing rates, coupled with more stringent containment and public health measures, had a significant negative impact on the death rate in both pre-vaccination and post-vaccination models. The data from the post-vaccination model demonstrate that higher vaccination rates were associated with significant decreases in fatalities. Additionally, our research indicates that countries with healthcare systems characterized by high and medium levels of decommodification experienced lower mortality rates than those with healthcare systems involving low decommodification.
Conclusions
The results of this study indicate that stronger public health infrastructure and more inclusive social protections have mitigated the severity of the pandemic’s adverse health impacts, more so than emergency containment measures and social restrictions.; Summary

Key Message
This study investigates whether COVID-19 mortality rates across a group of developed nations are associated with characteristics of their healthcare systems, beyond the differential policy responses in those countries. To this aim, a quantile regression with non-additive fixed effects is applied to estimate mortality rates across quantiles. The results of this study indicate that stronger public health infrastructure and more inclusive social protections have mitigated the severity of the pandemic’s adverse health impacts, more so than emergency containment measures and social restrictions.

Clinical Features and Risk Factors of Post-COVID-19 Condition in Korea: Myungwon Jang, Dongkwon Choi, Jonghyuk Choi, Ho-Jang Kwon; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(5):431-439. Published online September 8, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.124

629 View
50 Download

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
Numerous studies have explored the causes and spread of outbreaks, yet there is a lack of research on post-coronavirus disease 2019 condition (PCC) in Korea. The goal of this study was to identify the various types of PCC and associated factors in discharged patients and to provide directions for the ongoing health management of confirmed patients.
Methods
A telephone survey was conducted among 680 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients diagnosed between July 7, 2021 and August 26, 2021, in Dangjin, Chungnam, Korea. A descriptive analysis of characteristics, univariate analysis, and regression were performed using data from basic epidemiological surveys conducted at the time of diagnosis and post-discharge questionnaires.
Results
Of the 585 patients who responded, 159 (27.2%) developed PCC. Of the 211 patients with no initial symptoms, 27 (12.8%) developed PCC, versus 132 (35.3%) of the 374 patients with initial symptoms. Among the initial symptoms, fever or chills, cough or sputum, loss of smell, and sore throat were associated with PCC. Compared to patients with less than 10 days of hospitalization, those with a hospitalization period of 21 days to 30 days (odds ratio [OR], 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0 to 5.2) and 31 days or more (OR, 5.8; 95% CI, 1.9 to 18.1) had a higher risk of PCC.
Conclusions
More than a quarter of COVID-19 patients, including those who had no initial symptoms, experienced PCC in Korea. People with the initial symptoms of fever, chills, and respiratory symptoms and those who had prolonged hospital stays had a high risk of PCC.; Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 후유증은 진단 시 초기증상과 연관되며, 입원기간이 길어질수록 후유증 발병 위험이 높았다. 코로나19 후유증의 위험인자에 대한 추가적인 연구가 필요하며, 이러한 특징을 갖는 확진환자를 대상으로 퇴원 후 지속직인 환자관리가 필요하다.

Key Message
Post-coronavirus disease 2019 condition (PCC) are associated with initial symptoms at diagnosis, and the risk of this increases with longer hospital stays. Further research on the risk factors for PCC is needed, and continued patient care is necessary for confirmed patients with these characteristics after discharge.

Gender Inequalities in Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Population-based Study in Korea: Minku Kang, Sarah Yu, Seung-Ah Choe, Daseul Moon, Myung Ki, Byung Chul Chun; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(5):413-421. Published online August 19, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.170

835 View
69 Download

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
This study explored the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on psychosocial stress in prime working-age individuals in Korea, focusing on gender inequalities. We hypothesized that the impact of COVID-19 on mental health would differ by age and gender, with younger women potentially demonstrating heightened vulnerability relative to men.
Methods
The study involved data from the Korea Community Health Survey and included 319 592 adults aged 30 years to 49 years. We employed log-binomial regression analysis, controlling for variables including age, education, employment status, marital status, and the presence of children. The study period included 3 phases: the period prior to the COVID-19 outbreak (pre–COVID-19), the early pandemic, and the period following the introduction of vaccinations (post-vaccination).
Results
The findings indicated that women were at a heightened risk of psychosocial stress during the early pandemic (relative risk [RR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98 to 1.05) and post-vaccination period (RR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.10) compared to men. This pattern was prominent in urban women aged 30-34 years (pre–COVID-19: RR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.10; early pandemic: RR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.25; post-vaccination period, RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.14 to 1.31).
Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic has exerted unequal impacts on psychosocial stress among prime working-age individuals in Korea, with women, particularly those in urban areas, experiencing a heightened risk. The findings highlight the importance of addressing gender-specific needs and implementing appropriate interventions to mitigate the psychosocial consequences of the pandemic.; Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 대유행이 국내 경제활동인구의 정신건강에 미친 젠더화된 영향을 조사하였다. 연구대상자는 2017-2021년 지역사회건강조사 조사대상자 319,592명이다. 연구 결과, 대유행 이후 30-39세 연령대 여성의 스트레스 수준이 남성에 비하여 현저히 증가한 것으로 나타났으며, 사회적 거리두기를 엄격하게 시행하였던 도시 지역에서 이러한 경향이 두드러졌다. 이번 연구 결과는 대유행 대응 노력에서 취약 집단을 지원하기 위한 중재 정책의 필요성을 강조한다

Key Message
We investigate the gendered impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the working-age population in Korea, focusing on ages 30-49, utilizing data from the Korea Community Health Survey (KCHS) from 2017 to 2021 including 319,592 participants. Findings reveal a notable increase in stress levels among women in the 30-39 age group after the pandemic compared to men, accentuating in urban areas with stringent social distancing measures. Our results underscore the necessity for intervention policies to support vulnerable groups in pandemic response efforts.

Non-vaccination Against COVID-19 Among Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants Adults in Peru: A Cross-sectional Study, 2022: Akram Hernández-Vásquez, Rodrigo Vargas-Fernández; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(5):397-406. Published online August 17, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.078

1,541 View
131 Download

Abstract Summary PDF: Objectives
The purpose of this study was to determine factors associated with non-vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among the Venezuelan immigrant population residing in Peru.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted using data obtained from the Second Survey of the Venezuelan Population Residing in Peru in 2022. The dependent variable was vaccination status against COVID-19. The independent variables included socio-demographic, economic, and migratory characteristics of the included population. Crude and adjusted generalized linear Poisson-family models were used to calculate prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results
A total of 7739 Venezuelan migrants aged 18 years or older were included. The proportion of non-vaccination against COVID-19 was 5.7%. Regarding associated factors, unemployment (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR], 1.31; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.65) was linked to an increased likelihood of not being vaccinated against COVID-19. In contrast, women (aPR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.95), possessing a migration permit (aPR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.54), and having health insurance (aPR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.81) were associated with a decreased likelihood of being unvaccinated.
Conclusions
The primary governmental and non-governmental institutions responsible for supporting and protecting the Venezuelan migrant and refugee population should improve vaccination access by issuing migration permits and providing health insurance.; Summary

Key Message
• Vaccination against COVID-19 is a strategy that should be provided equitably to the entire population. However, there are vulnerable groups such as Venezuelan migrants who have structural, cultural and socioeconomic barriers that limit access to this prevention system. • In Peru, about 6% of Venezuelan migrants have not received the complete vaccination schedule against COVID-19 due to the lack of employment in this population. In fact, the majority (61.9%) of Venezuelan migrants have only received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine by February 2022.

Brief Report

Utilization of the Unlinked Case Proportion to Control COVID-19: A Focus on the Non-pharmaceutical Interventional Policies of the Korea and Japan: Yeri Jeong, Sanggu Kang, Boeun Kim, Yong Jin Gil, Seung-sik Hwang, Sung-il Cho; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(4):377-383. Published online June 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.056

1,662 View
57 Download

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
Korea and Japan have managed the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) using markedly different policies, referred to as the “3T” and “3C” strategies, respectively. This study examined these differences to assess the roles of active testing and contact tracing as non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). We compared the proportion of unlinked cases (UCs) and test positivity rate (TPR) as indicators of tracing and testing capacities.
Methods
We outlined the evolution of NPI policies and investigated temporal trends in their correlations with UCs, confirmed cases, and TPR prior to the Omicron peak. Spearman correlation coefficients were reported between the proportion of UCs, confirmed cases, and TPR. The Fisher r-to-z transformation was employed to examine the significance of differences between correlation coefficients.
Results
The proportion of UCs was significantly correlated with confirmed cases (r=0.995, p<0.001) and TPR (r=0.659, p<0.001) in Korea and with confirmed cases (r=0.437, p<0.001) and TPR (r=0.429, p<0.001) in Japan. The Fisher r-to-z test revealed significant differences in correlation coefficients between the proportion of UCs and confirmed cases (z=16.07, p<0.001) and between the proportion of UCs and TPR (z=2.12, p=0.034) in Korea and Japan.
Conclusions
Higher UCs were associated with increases in confirmed cases and TPR, indicating the importance of combining testing and contact tracing in controlling COVID-19. The implementation of stricter policies led to stronger correlations between these indicators. The proportion of UCs and TPR effectively indicated the effectiveness of NPIs. If the proportion of UCs shows an upward trend, more testing and contact tracing may be required.; Summary

Korean summary
“3T”전략과 “3C”전략으로 대표되는 한국과 일본의 코로나 19 유행 시기의 NPI 정책을 비교하고, 접촉자 추적 및 검사 역량의 지표로 감염경로를 알 수 없는 확진자(unlinked case)와 검사 양성률(TPR)의 역할을 평가하였다. 감염경로를 알 수 없는 확진자(UC)는 전체 확진자수 증가 및 검사 양성률의 증가와 관련이 있었으며, 이는 COVID-19 통제에 있어 검사와 접촉자 추적을 적절히 조합하는 것이 중요함을 보여준다.

Original Articles

COVID-19 Vaccination and Clinical Outcomes at a Secondary Referral Hospital During the Delta Variant-dominant Period in West Sumatra, Indonesia: Didan Ariadapa Rahadi, Elfira Yusri, Syandrez Prima Putra, Rima Semiarty, Dian Pertiwi, Cimi Ilmiawati; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(3):221-230. Published online May 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.077

1,161 View
93 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
The second wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Indonesia, during which the Delta variant predominated, took place after a vaccination program had been initiated in the country. This study was conducted to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on unfavorable clinical outcomes including hospitalization, severe COVID-19, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death using a real-world model.
Methods
This single-center retrospective cohort study involved patients with COVID-19 aged ≥18 years who presented to the COVID-19 emergency room at a secondary referral teaching hospital between June 1, 2021 and August 31, 2021. We used a binary logistic regression model to assess the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on unfavorable clinical outcomes, with age, sex, and comorbidities as confounding variables.
Results
A total of 716 patients were included, 32.1% of whom were vaccinated. The elderly participants (≥65 years) had the lowest vaccine coverage among age groups. Vaccination had an effectiveness of 50% (95% confidence interval [CI], 25 to 66) for preventing hospitalization, 97% (95% CI, 77 to 99) for preventing severe COVID-19, 95% (95% CI, 56 to 99) for preventing ICU admission, and 90% (95% CI, 22 to 99) for preventing death. Interestingly, patients with type 2 diabetes had a 2-fold to 4-fold elevated risk of unfavorable outcomes.
Conclusions
Among adults, COVID-19 vaccination has a moderate preventive impact on hospitalization but a high preventive impact on severe COVID-19, ICU admission, and death. The authors suggest that relevant parties increase COVID-19 vaccination coverage, especially in the elderly population.; Summary

Determinant Factors of Mortality in Pre-elderly and Elderly Patients With COVID-19 in Jakarta, Indonesia: Thresya Febrianti, Ngabila Salama, Inggariwati , Dwi Oktavia; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(3):231-237. Published online May 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.008

1,104 View
93 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality in pre-elderly and elderly individuals in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Methods
We employed a case-control study design, utilizing secondary data from the Epidemiology Surveillance, Immunization Prevention, and Disease Control Sections of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Office, collected from December 2020 to January 2021. The study included 188 cases and an equal number of controls. Cases were COVID-19 patients confirmed to have died, as reported by hospitals and communities and subsequently verified by healthcare workers. Control subjects were patients who completed a 14-day isolation period and had been officially declared recovered by healthcare professionals. The dependent variable was the mortality of COVID-19 patients in the January 2021 period. The independent variables consisted of demographic data (age and sex), clinical symptoms (cough, runny nose, anosmia, diarrhea, headaches, abdominal pain, muscle pain, and nausea/vomiting), and comorbidities (hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes). Multivariate analysis was conducted using multiple logistic regression.
Results
The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed several factors associated with COVID-19 fatalities in Jakarta: age of 60 years or older (odds ratio [OR], 4.84; 95% CI, 3.00 to 7.80), male (OR, 2.38; 95% CI, 2.41 to 3.68), dyspnea (OR, 3.93; 95% CI, 2.04 to 7.55), anosmia (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.46), and heart disease (OR, 4.38; 95% CI, 1.04 to 18.46).
Conclusions
The control and prevention of COVID-19 among elderly individuals require particular vigilance. When a COVID-19 case is detected within this demographic, prompt treatment and medication administration are crucial to mitigate the presenting symptoms.; Summary

Sleep Quality and Poor Sleep-related Factors Among Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Vietnam: Thang Phan, Ha Phan Ai Nguyen, Cao Khoa Dang, Minh Tri Phan, Vu Thanh Nguyen, Van Tuan Le, Binh Thang Tran, Chinh Van Dang, Tinh Huu Ho, Minh Tu Nguyen, Thang Van Dinh, Van Trong Phan, Binh Thai Dang, Huynh Ho Ngoc Quynh, Minh Tran Le, Nhan Phuc Thanh Nguyen; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(4):319-326. Published online May 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.22.528

1,668 View
135 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has increased the workload of healthcare workers (HCWs), impacting their health. This study aimed to assess sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and identify factors associated with poor sleep among HCWs in Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 1000 frontline HCWs were recruited from various healthcare facilities in Vietnam between October 2021 and November 2021. Data were collected using a 3-part self-administered questionnaire, which covered demographics, sleep quality, and factors related to poor sleep. Poor sleep quality was defined as a total PSQI score of 5 or higher.
Results
Participants’ mean age was 33.20±6.81 years (range, 20.0-61.0), and 63.0% were women. The median work experience was 8.54±6.30 years. Approximately 6.3% had chronic comorbidities, such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. About 59.5% were directly responsible for patient care and treatment, while 7.1% worked in tracing and sampling. A total of 73.8% reported poor sleep quality. Multivariate logistic regression revealed significant associations between poor sleep quality and the presence of chronic comorbidities (odds ratio [OR], 2.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17 to 5.24), being a frontline HCW directly involved in patient care and treatment (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.16 to 2.16), increased working hours (OR, 1.84; 95% CI,1.37 to 2.48), and a higher frequency of encountering critically ill and dying patients (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.95).
Conclusions
The high prevalence of poor sleep among HCWs in Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic was similar to that in other countries. Working conditions should be adjusted to improve sleep quality among this population.; Summary

Characteristics of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Hospitalized Children Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand: Wilawan Chaiut, Ratana Sapbamrer, Sauwaluk Dacha, Tavitiya Sudjaritruk, Ida Parwati, Anton Sumarpo, Rungnapa Malasao; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(3):212-220. Published online March 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.23.019

1,804 View
142 Download
1 Citations

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study compared the epidemiological and clinical manifestations of patients hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic at a tertiary care hospital in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Methods
This retrospective observational study utilized data from all cases of laboratory-confirmed RSV infection at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital from January 2016 to December 2021. Differences in the clinical presentation of RSV infection before (2016 to 2019) and during (2020 to 2021) the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed and compared.
Results
In total, 358 patients hospitalized with RSV infections were reported from January 2016 to December 2021. During the COVID-19 pandemic, only 74 cases of hospitalized RSV infection were reported. Compared to pre-pandemic levels, the clinical presentations of RSV infection showed statistically significant decreases in fever on admission (p=0.004), productive cough (p=0.004), sputum (p=0.003), nausea (p=0.03), cyanosis (p=0.004), pallor (p<0.001), diarrhea (p<0.001), and chest pain (p<0.001). Furthermore, vigilant measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including lockdowns, also interrupted the RSV season in Thailand from 2020 to 2021.
Conclusions
The incidence of RSV infection was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, which also changed the clinical presentation and seasonal pattern of RSV infection in children.

Summary

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Predominance of ON1 and BA9 genotypes of human respiratory syncytial virus in children with acute respiratory infection in Chiang Mai, Thailand, 2020–2021
Rungnapa Malasao, Wilawan Chaiut, Wanwisa Tantipetcharawan, Ratchanu Tongphung, Nicha Charoensri, Piyawan Takarn, Tavitiya Sudjaritruk, Niwat Maneekarn
Journal of Infection and Public Health.2023; 16(9): 1418. CrossRef

Changes in the Hospital Standardized Mortality Ratio Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Disaggregated Analysis by Region and Hospital Type in Korea: EunKyo Kang, Won Mo Jang, Min Sun Shin, Hyejin Lee, Jin Yong Lee; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(2):180-189. Published online March 20, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.22.479

1,224 View
61 Download

Abstract Summary PDF: Objectives
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a global shortage of medical resources; therefore, we investigated whether COVID-19 impacted the quality of non-COVID-19 hospital care in Korea by comparing hospital standardized mortality rates (HSMRs) before and during the pandemic.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study analyzed Korean National Health Insurance discharge claim data obtained from January to June in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. Patients’ in-hospital deaths were classified according to the most responsible diagnosis categories. The HSMR is calculated as the ratio of expected deaths to actual deaths. The time trend in the overall HSMR was analyzed by region and hospital type.
Results
The final analysis included 2 252 824 patients. In 2020, the HSMR increased nationwide (HSMR, 99.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 97.7 to 101.0) in comparison to 2019 (HSMR, 97.3; 95% CI, 95.8 to 98.8). In the COVID-19 pandemic zone, the HSMR increased significantly in 2020 (HSMR, 112.7; 95% CI, 107.0 to 118.7) compared to 2019 (HSMR, 101.7; 95% CI, 96.9 to 106.6). The HSMR in all general hospitals increased significantly in 2020 (HSMR, 106.4; 95% CI, 104.3 to 108.5) compared to 2019 (HSMR, 100.3; 95% CI, 98.4 to 102.2). Hospitals participating in the COVID-19 response had a lower HSMR (HSMR, 95.6; 95% CI, 93.9 to 97.4) than hospitals not participating in the COVID-19 response (HSMR, 124.3; 95% CI, 119.3 to 129.4).
Conclusions
This study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have negatively impacted the quality of care in hospitals, especially general hospitals with relatively few beds. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to prevent excessive workloads in hospitals and to properly employ and coordinate the workforce.; Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 대유행 지역은 비감염 지역과 달리 2019년에 비해 2020년에 HSMR이 크게 증가했고, 상대적으로 병상 수가 적은 종합병원에서 HSMR이 증가했다. 코로나19 대응에 참여하는 병원은 병원 규모와 관계없이 HSMR이 낮은 경향을 보였다. 감염병 유행 시 병원의 과도한 업무량이 부여되지 않게하고 인력을 적절하게 고용하여 조정하는 것이 필요하다.

Predisposing, Enabling, and Reinforcing Factors of COVID-19 Prevention Behavior in Indonesia: A Mixed-methods Study: Putri Winda Lestari, Lina Agestika, Gusti Kumala Dewi; J Prev Med Public Health. 2023;56(1):21-30. Published online December 29, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.22.340

1,894 View
188 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
To prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), behaviors such as mask-wearing, social distancing, decreasing mobility, and avoiding crowds have been suggested, especially in high-risk countries such as Indonesia. Unfortunately, the level of compliance with those practices has been low. This study was conducted to determine the predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors of COVID-19 prevention behavior in Indonesia.
Methods
This cross-sectional study used a mixed-methods approach. The participants were 264 adults from 21 provinces in Indonesia recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a Google Form and in-depth interviews. Statistical analysis included univariate, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression. Furthermore, qualitative data analysis was done through content analysis and qualitative data management using Atlas.ti software.
Results
Overall, 44.32% of respondents were non-compliant with recommended COVID-19 prevention behaviors. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, low-to-medium education level, poor attitude, insufficient involvement of leaders, and insufficient regulation were also associated with decreased community compliance. Based on in-depth interviews with informants, the negligence of the Indonesian government in the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the unpreparedness of the community to face the pandemic, as people were not aware of the importance of preventive practices.
Conclusions
Education level is not the only factor influencing community compliance with recommended COVID-19 prevention behaviors. Changing attitudes through health promotion to increase public awareness and encouraging voluntary community participation through active risk communication are necessary. Regulations and role leaders are also required to improve COVID-19 prevention behavior.; Summary

Associations Between Conventional Healthy Behaviors and Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence From the 2020 Community Health Survey in Korea: Rang Hee Kwon, Minsoo Jung; J Prev Med Public Health. 2022;55(6):568-577. Published online October 14, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.22.351

2,154 View
97 Download
1 Citations

Abstract Summary PDF

Objectives
Many studies have shown that social distancing, as a non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI) that is one of the various measures against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is an effective preventive measure to suppress the spread of infectious diseases. This study explored the relationships between traditional health-related behaviors in Korea and social distancing practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
Data were obtained from the 2020 Community Health Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (n=98 149). The dependent variable was the degree of social distancing practice to cope with the COVID-19 epidemic. Independent variables included health-risk behaviors and health-promoting behaviors. The moderators were vaccination and unmet medical needs. Predictors affecting the practice of social distancing were identified through hierarchical multiple logistic regression analysis.
Results
Smokers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.924) and frequent drinkers (aOR, 0.933) were more likely not to practice social distancing. A greater degree of physical activity was associated with a higher likelihood of practicing social distancing (aOR, 1.029). People who were vaccinated against influenza were more likely to practice social distancing than those who were not (aOR, 1.150). However, people with unmet medical needs were less likely to practice social distancing than those who did not experience unmet medical needs (aOR, 0.757).
Conclusions
Social distancing practices were related to traditional health behaviors such as smoking, drinking, and physical activity. Their patterns showed a clustering effect of health inequality. Therefore, when establishing a strategy to strengthen social distancing, a strategy to protect the vulnerable should be considered concomitantly.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 코로나-19 판데믹 기간 동안 한국사회에서 전통적인 건강 행태와 의료이용 행태가 사회적 거리두기 실천과 어떻게 연관되는지 탐구하였다. 연구 결과에 따르면 흡연과 음주 같은 건강위험 행태는 사회적 거리두기의 실천 가능성을 낮추었고 운동과 같은 건강증진 행태는 사회적 거리두기의 실천 가능성을 높였다. 아울러 인플루엔자 백신 접종을 받은 집단은 미접종 집단에 비하여 사회적 거리두기의 실천 가능성이 높았다. 따라서 사회적 거리두기와 같은 방역정책을 수립할 때 인구집단의 건강행태 특성을 고려할 필요가 있다.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Non-rigorous versus rigorous home confinement differently impacts mental health, quality of life and behaviors. Which one was better? A cross-sectional study with older Brazilian adults during covid-19 first wave
Lucimere Bohn, Pedro Pugliesi Abdalla, Euripedes Barsanulfo Gonçalves Gomide, Leonardo Santos Lopes da Silva, André Pereira dos Santos
Archives of Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

The Impact of Household Economic Deterioration Caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Socioeconomic Status on Suicidal Behaviors in Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study Using 2020 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey Data: Sanggu Kang, Yeri Jeong, Eun Hye Park, Seung-sik Hwang; J Prev Med Public Health. 2022;55(5):455-463. Published online September 12, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.22.241

2,077 View
103 Download
2 Citations

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Objectives
Economic hardship has a serious impact on adolescents’ mental health. The financial impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was more severe for low-income families, and this also impacted adolescents. This study aimed to examine the associations of economic deterioration (ED) caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and low socioeconomic status (SES) with adolescents’ suicidal behaviors.
Methods
This study analyzed data from the 2020 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey, which included 54 948 middle and high school students. Odds ratios (ORs) of suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, and suicide attempts related to ED and SES were calculated using multivariable logistic regression. We calculated relative excess risks due to interaction to assess additive interactions.
Results
The ORs for suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, and suicide attempts related to combined severe ED and low SES were 3.64 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.13 to 4.23), 3.88 (95% CI, 3.09 to 4.88), and 4.27 (95% CI, 3.21 to 5.69), respectively.
Conclusions
ED and low SES were significantly associated with suicidal behaviors in adolescents. Although no significant additive interaction was found, the ORs related to suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, and suicide attempts were highest among adolescents from low-income families with severe ED. Special attention is needed for this group, considering the increased impact of economic inequality due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summary

Korean summary
청소년의 정신건강은 가정의 경제상황에 크게 영향을 받는다. 청소년건강행태조사(KYRBS)(2020)에 참여한 54948명의 중고등학생을 대상으로 가정의 기존 경제적 형편과 코로나19로 인한 가정경제 악화가 자살위험에 미치는 영향을 분석하였다. 그 결과 자살사고, 자살계획, 자살시도 모두 코로나19로 인한 경제상황 악화 정도가 심한 저소득층 가정 청소년에서 위험이 제일 높은 것으로 확인되었다. 코로나19(COVID-19)로 인해 심화된 경제적 불평등이 청소년 정신건강 불평등으로 이어지지 않게 하기 위한 개입이 필요하다.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Letter to the Editor: Addressing Children’s Mental Health Issues Related to Economic Changes Caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic
Dalmacito A. Cordero
Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health.2023; 56(1): 95. CrossRef
Effects of COVID-19 outbreak on Korean adolescents: Impact of altered economic perception on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and stress levels in an age-, gender-, and BMI-matched study
Jisu Kim, In-Whi Hwang, Jeong-Hui Park, Youngdeok Kim, Jung-Min Lee, Sandra Celina Fernandes Fonseca
PLOS ONE.2023; 18(11): e0294270. CrossRef

First
Prev
Page of 3
Next
Last

Search