Common Symptoms in COVID-19 ConfirmedCases Followed-Up at Home by PrimaryHealthcare Services

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to determine common symptoms in COVID-19 confirmed patients who werefollowed up at home by primary health care services.Methods: ThLV deVcULSWLYe VWXd ZaV cRQdXcWed LQ KÕUNOaUeOL, TXUNe beWZeeQ JXO 2020 aQd DecePbeU2020. The study was conducted with 315 patients aged 18 years and over who were confirmed positiveby the Polymerase Chain Reaction test and followed up at home by a Family Health Center.Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.13±16.33 years. 53.7% were male, 87% lived in ruralareas, 98.1% had health insurance and 54.9% were employed. Of the adults, 5.1% had the adult vaccineand 25.4% had a chronic disease. While at least one symptom was observed in 84.8% of the patients,15.2% had no symptoms. The symptoms detected among the participants were cough (26.3%), headache(26.3%), and high fever (24.1%). The frequency of symptoms was higher in women than in men, andmyalgia, arthralgia, nausea, and vomiting were also more frequent. The symptom of chills was morecommon in adults at 40 years and over compared to those under 40.Conclusion: In case of cough, headache, or high fever among adults, a healthcare provider should beconsulted and screening for other symptoms. In terms of follow-up, symptom management, andtreatment of the disease, women, and individuals 40 years and over should be prioritized, carefullyfollowed up, and provided with the necessary isolation. There are also asymptomatic cases of COVID 19 disease. Isolation of asymptomatic patients is also important because of the high contagiousness ofthe disease.