EFFECTS OF RE-OPENING OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION DURING COVID-19 INFECTION: FACT OR FICTION.

http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2023/13.03.462

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effects of re-opening of the educational institution during COVID-19 infection among faculty members and students at a private Medical College in Pakistan. Study Design: Cross sectional study design

Place and Duration of Study: Al-Tibri Medical College Hospital, Isra University Karachi campus Karachi from March 2021 to September 2021.Methodology: Both teaching staff and students of either gender were included in the study after receiving informed consent. They were divided into two groups (Basic Sciences and Clinical Sciences). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 through nasal swab were done before joining the physical classes, then after 3 months, and then in 6 months. SPSS version 23.0 was used to analyze the data, and p-values under 0.05 were deemed significant.Results: In pre-arrival testing to medical college, out of 513 samples the positivity rates were 26(5.06%). While in 1^st phase out of 308, 22(7.1%) and in 2^nd phase, out of 209 it was positive in 10(4.78%). All phases of exposure to COVID-19 highlight the association with the age between Basic Sciences and Clinical Sciences groups and was significantly correlated with a p-value of 0.001.

Conclusion: COIVD 19 test positivity rates during closure and phased reopening of medical college/educational institutions were comparable with overall country’s positivity rates, hence we think the catastrophe of closure of well-organized sectors like educational institutes of society during pandemic was outweighed the benefits related claims of pandemic confinement.