Survey COVID-19 among the homeless residents of Isin camp in Bandar Abbas in South of Iran

BACKGROUND: One way to reduce the burden of early detection of COVID-19 disease is in vulnerable and high-risk groups. The aim of this study was to diagnose and evaluate the disease in the homeless in Southern Iran Bandar Abbas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The target group of this study was 234 homeless people. Census sampling included all homeless residents of Isin camp Bandar Abbas. People were individually examined, and their information was recorded. COVID-19 sampling was done for all as outpatients this year.RESULTS: Eight percent of people were able to answer the questions of awareness about symptoms, ways of transmission, and ways of prevention of COVID-19 disease. Nine percent of the homeless people in the target group stated that they used to wash their hands before settling in the camp. Six percent of homeless people stated that they used face masks before settling in the camp. Fifteen participants showed similar symptoms to COVID-19, yet their test result was negative. However, six people who were asymptomatic ended up afflicted. The mean duration of time (since the emergence of symptoms to the sampling date) was 3 days. The minimum duration of time from the emergence of symptoms to the sampling date was 3 h, and the maximum time was 7 days.CONCLUSION: Considering the spread of the disease, certain social measures need to be taken in society to help take care of these people and transfer them from streets to safe places and provide for their essentials. Diagnostic tests should be done periodically among these people at regular intervals.

Automated summary

This study aimed to diagnose and evaluate COVID-19 among the homeless in Bandar Abbas, Southern Iran. Results showed that only a small percentage of homeless individuals were aware of COVID-19 symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods. Some participants reported washing hands and wearing masks before entering the camp, while a few asymptomatic individuals ended up testing positive for the virus. Regular diagnostic tests and social measures are recommended to ensure the health and safety of this vulnerable population.