Epidemiological Determinants of COVID-19 Infection in South Indian Population

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a significant global impact. In South India, particularly during the second wave in 2021, the situati on worsened due to factors such as high populati on density, urbanisation, and healthcare disparities. This study aims to explore the epidemiological determinants of COVID-19 infection in South India.Methodology: A cross-secti onal online survey was conducted among 317 individuals from South India. Parti cipants, aged 18-65, were selected based on their willingness to parti cipate, with data collected on demographics, health conditi ons, behavioural factors, and COVID- 19-related informati on. Stati sti cal analysis was performed to identify significant epidemiological factors contributi ng to COVID-19 infection.Results: The sample consisted of 56.01% males and 43.99% females, with 68.67% being healthcare/ frontline workers. The majority (55.06%) lived in rural areas. Key fi ndings included 44.94% of parti cipants having travelled during the pandemic and 38.92% involved in essenti al services. Mental health issues like anxiety (10.44%) and concentrati on diffi culti es (10.76%) were common. Self-medicati on with vitamin C (16.51%) andprophylacti c medicati on use (7.91%) were reported. Socio-economic factors and mental health challenges were associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 infecti on. Occupati on, travel, mental health, and socio-economic status signifi cantly impacted COVID-19 transmission. Healthcare workers were especially vulnerable, highlighti ng the need for targeted interventi ons.Conclusion: This study emphasises the role of socio-economic and behavioural factors in the spread of COVID-19 in South India. Tailored public health strategies, focusing on healthcare access, mental health, and public educati on, are essential for mitigating future pandemics. How to cite this article:Arun A, Thendral R, Rakesh A, Nag A, Nath A R, Thankachan B, S Mayookha. Epidemiological Determinants of COVID-19 Infection in South Indian Population. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(4):23-30. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202466