A qualitative study of COVID-19 home quarantine in public

Abstract

Context: The infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus has spread all over the world for the first time. A key factor in containing infectious diseases is compliance with health recommendations such as social distancing and home quarantine. Aims: This study aimed to analyze the public perception of noncompliance with home quarantine during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Settings and Design: This qualitative study was conducted in Iran (Ardabil and Kermanshah) in 2020. The research data were collected from 15 participants living in urban communities by conducting in-depth, semi-structured, and face-to-face individual interviews. Materials and Methods: The purposive sampling technique was used with maximum variation in this study. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analysed using content analysis and MAXQD-10 software was used to manage data. Results: A total of 15 participants comprised the final sample after data saturation. They were aged 18–51 years old. Regarding the research purposes, data analyses resulted in three categories and six subcategories: uncertainty (uncertainty about the News and uncertainty about job security), the need for serious governmental interventions (supportive interventions and legal interventions), and the fear of quarantine consequences (financial livelihood consequences and physical-psychological consequences). Conclusion: Compliance with home quarantine requires the support of people and officials to contain infectious diseases. Home quarantine is not complied by the public for various reasons such as distrust, the need for supportive governmental interventions, and the fear of negative consequences. Apparently, governmental support plays a central role in solving livelihood problems.