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. 2023 Oct 26;9(5):505-511.
doi: 10.33546/bnj.2735. eCollection 2023.

Uncovering the underlying aspects of successful COVID-19 prevention and control in Thailand through factor analysis: Lessons we have not yet learned from village health volunteers

Kittiporn Nawsuwan  1 , Roshinee Oupra  2 , Noppcha Singweratham  3 , Phayong Thepaksorn  4
Affiliations

Uncovering the underlying aspects of successful COVID-19 prevention and control in Thailand through factor analysis: Lessons we have not yet learned from village health volunteers

Kittiporn Nawsuwan et al. Belitung Nurs J. .

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a global challenge, leading different nations to adopt diverse strategies for prevention and control. In Thailand, Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) have played a pivotal role in the fight against the virus. As the pandemic unfolded, the critical role of VHVs became apparent, prompting a closer examination of their practices and the underlying factors contributing to their effectiveness.

Objective: This study aimed to uncover the underlying factors and indicators contributing to the successful prevention and control of COVID-19 by VHVs in Thailand.

Methods: The sample group included 10,400 VHVs nationwide. Data were collected from October 2020 to February 2021 using five-point Likert rating scale online questionnaires. Data were analyzed using the Exploratory Factor Analysis technique, with Principal Component Analysis and the orthogonal Varimax method.

Results: The study revealed nine effective factors and 52 indicators contributing to the prevention and control of COVID-19 in Thailand. The identified factors are as follows: 1) Personal precautions, 2) Proactive disease control strategy, 3) Awareness of COVID-19 severity, 4) Pride and job motivation, 5) Adequate medical equipment and support, 6) Communication, planning, and monitoring processes, 7) Self-care for health, 8) Data collection, record maintenance, and report submission, and 9) Proper hand washing.

Conclusion: This research emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to community-based health interventions. It highlights the crucial role of VHVs in disseminating information, ensuring preparedness, and fostering a sense of responsibility among community members. This strategic approach will effectively contribute to ongoing efforts to successfully prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 and potential future outbreaks.

Keywords: COVID-19; Thailand; community health; control; factor analysis; prevention; successful factors; village health volunteers.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors had no conflict of interest to declare.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Successful factors of COVID-19 prevention and control in the community by VHVs in Thailand
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