Authors: Mbutshu Lukuke Hendrick, Kape Libazi Nene, Tshibanda kabwebwe Abdias, Mwembo Tambwe-ANkoy Albert, Malonga Kaj Francoise, Kadima Mukanda Gédéon.
Introduction: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 among healthcare workers; to describe the means of prevention used by these nursing staff and to determine the behavior and attitude towards the disease of these nursing staff of the University Clinics of Lubumbashi.
Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study from January 1, 2021 to June 31, 2021 among all healthcare providers (doctors and nurses) working at the University Clinics of Lubumbashi.
Results: Out of 391 caregivers surveyed, including 246 doctors and 145 nurses, we observed a prevalence of 10.99% that is 43 caregivers, including 28 doctors, ie 65.12% and 15 Nurses or 34.88% whose average age was 40 ±6 years, with a predominance of men (56%) that is sex ratio of 1.26 in favor of men. It is important to note that most cases were diagnosed clinically, ie 62.79% of cases.
The saliva droplets were themode of infection of COVID-19 the most experienced by caregivers with 58.14%, followed by physical contact with a rate of 39.53%. The wearing ofmask and hydro-alcoholic friction were the most cited by caregivers as the most effective means of prevention, which they applied and advised patients. Most of the caregivers were subjected to chloroquine and azythromycin, the others admitted to using the traditional treatment of inhaling the vapors of several wild leaves and trees, in particular: lemon, mango... is about the outcome of the disease, almost -all of the nursing staff were cured, ie 97.67% of cases.
Conclusion : The prevalence of COVID-19 disease among caregivers was 10.99%, however it is observed that active screening was not carried out and the cases observed presented almost all of the clinical signs and the clinical diagnosis was used for all cases, hence its underestimation. It would be important to regularly screen exposed caregivers and make personal protective equipment regularly available and monitor barrier measures.
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