COVID19 Infection in Health Care Professionals: Risks, Work-Safety and Psychological Issues

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Occupational Health
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic poses a global health crisis, with healthcare personnel (HCPs) at high risk of infection.
• Frontline workers in hospitals and intensive care units face occupational hazards, including potential infection and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report cases of COVID-19 infection among healthcare personnel in a tertiary care hospital.
• To review workplace safety and psychological health issues experienced by healthcare professionals during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, hospital-based survey conducted from April to June 2020.
• Data collected via interviews and an online questionnaire, including demographics, workplace safety, and psychological parameters.

Main Results:

• A total of 40 healthcare workers were infected with COVID-19 within two months.
• Over 57% of infected HCPs reported psychological distress, including anxiety, fear, anger, irritability, and insomnia.
• Approximately 42.5% of infected HCPs did not receive psychological counseling.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare workers are at increased risk of COVID-19 infection due to frontline exposure.
• The study underscores workplace risks, transmission concerns, service disruptions, and psychological stress among HCPs.
• Ensuring a safe work environment and addressing psychological well-being are crucial for HCPs to effectively perform their duties.