Investigation of asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers among healthcare workers

Authors : Mehmet Solak, Berrak Çakmakçı, Sarper Kızılkaya, Hüseyin Güdücüoğlu

Pages : 33-38

View : 14 | Download : 38

Publication Date : 2024-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: The COVID-19 infection can lead to diverse clinical consequences, ranging from mild symptomatic cases to severe respiratory failure and potential fatality. Asymptomatic cases can also be seen and individuals who are considered to be asymptomatic can spread the disease. This study aims to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 asymptomatic cases among healthcare workers. Material and Method: A total of 320 oropharyngeal samples were collected from individuals who are considered to be asymptomatic. The samples were then subjected to Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 detection Results: A total of 320 healthcare workers volunteered to participate. Healthcare workers showing clinical symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 were excluded from participation in this study. Among the participants, 45% were doctors, 13.75% were nurses, and 12.5% were intern doctors. The gender distribution was 60% male and 40% female. Additionally, 52.8% (169 participants) reported a history of prior COVID-19 infection. All of the 320 participant’s samples were tested with RT-PCR found to be negative. Conclusion: During this exit period from strict quarantine measures, it is crucial to prevent silent infection among asymptomatic carriers in addition to identifying and isolating the COVID-19 positive individuals
Keywords : COVID 19, asemptomatik taşıyıcı, sağlık çalışanı