Biomedicine

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: In March 2020, India reported the first case of COVID-19 and by March 2021, first signs of second wave started across various Indian states which lasted until June. It was important to screen for active cases and their contacts to actively curb the spread of the infection. The aim was to study the demographic and morbidity patterns of the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Puttur taluk.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted using the data collected during Universal Screening for COVID-19 in Puttur during June–July 2021. Data collected on general condition, symptoms, red flag signs, blood-pressure, GRBS, SpO2, and swabbing for RT-PCR.
Results: Total screened were 2859; 1350(47.2%)-males, 1509(52.8%)-females. 59.4% aged <40 years, 79.8% were BPL. 91.9% had no comorbidities, 4.7% hypertensives, 1.4% Diabetics, 1.3% were Diabetic and Hypertensive. 4.1% had cough, fever, body ache, loss of smell or taste. 67.2% had contact history with COVID-19 patient(p<0.05), 1288(45.05%) did not follow any personal protective measures(p<0.05). Swabs taken in 1624(56.8%); subgroup-analysis showed no association between comorbidities and contracting COVID-19(p>0.05).
Conclusion: COVID-19 suspects had no association with comorbidity status but only with positive contact history and not following personal protective measures.