Testing Positive for Covid-19, Signs and Symptoms, Treatment, and Covid-19-Related Anxiety: A Case of Factory Workers

Abstract

Objective: This paper investigated the incidence of COVID-19 contraction, signs and symptoms, treatment, pandemic-related anxiety, and related factors in factory workers. Methods: This was a descriptive study conducted in a factory operating in the textile industry. No sampling was performed. The sample consisted of 287 volunteers. Data were collected using a sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale Short Form. Results: Less than half the participants tested positive for COVID-19 (41.1%). They were treated at home (68.6%) or in a hospital (19.5%). The most common symptoms were fatigue, joint pain, change in the sense of taste, and headache. The mean duration of home and hospital treatment was 7.00±0.00 and 12.49±6.14, respectively. Participants had a mean anxiety scale score of 7.65±3.71. Less than half the participants (31%) had high COVID-19 anxiety levels. The incidence of COVID-19 infection and anxiety was higher in participants who were on medication for chronic illnesses. Age and BMI were correlated with hospitalization for COVID-19. Conclusions: The incidence of COVID-19 infection is high among factory workers. Therefore, authorities should consider them a priority group for vaccination and provide them with training on COVID-19 risk factors and preventive measures.