Outcomes of Home Isolation Care Among COVID-19 Patients During the 2021 Epidemic Crisis in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Thailand.

Journal: American Journal Of Public Health
Published:
Abstract

Objectives. To determine the overall mortality and risk factors of COVID-19 patients who were admitted to the Home Isolation (HI) program in Bangkok, Thailand, during the epidemic crisis in 2021. Methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the data from a government telehealth application from July to December 2021. The vital status was verified from the government database on September 20, 2022. We used survival analysis to analyze the 28-day mortality and independently associated factors. Results. Of 90 854 reported cases, the average age was 37.27 years, and half were men. Initial symptoms included being asymptomatic (51.66%), having mild symptoms (35.60%), or experiencing severe symptoms requiring nonurgent (11.27%) or urgent referral (1.47%). The 28-day mortality rate was 0.80%. Factors associated with 28-day mortality included older age, male gender, higher body mass index, severity of initial symptoms, and time to admission. Conclusions. The Home Isolation program was able to manage a high volume of patients, including severe cases, exceeding its initial design. Thailand's COVID-19 mortality rate remained relatively low compared with other countries. Proactive bed surge planning and continuous plan improvement were crucial for future preparedness. (Am J Public Health. 2025;115(4):605-616. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307922).

Authors
Teeraboon Lertwanichwattana, Supattra Srivanichakorn, Sairat Noknoy, Sirinapa Siriporn Ratchaseema, Nittaya Phanuphak, Kitti Wongthavarawat, Arunotai Siriussawakul, Varalak Srinonprasert, Pattara Leelahavarong, Parawee Chevaisrakul, Putthapoom Lumjiaktase, Aree Kumpitak, Nopphan Phromsri, Yupadee Sirisinsuk, Pongtorn Kietdumrongwong, Apinun Aramrattana, Ram Rangsin