Impacts of Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Outbreaks in Korea: Level 1 Trauma Center Data of Domestic Incidents and Intentional Injury
10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.6.02
- Author:
Ye Rim CHANG
1
;
Kyoung Min KIM
;
Hyo Joung KIM
;
Dong Hun KIM
;
Jeonsang KIM
;
Dongsub NOH
;
Dae Sung MA
;
Jeongseok YUN
;
Jung-Ho YUN
;
Seok Won LEE
;
Seok Ho CHOI
;
Yoonjung HEO
;
Sung Wook CHANG
Author Information
1. Department of Surgery, Trauma Center, Dankook University Hospital, Cheonan, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives
2020;11(6):345-350
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:As a protective measure to slow down the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 in Korea, social distancing was implemented from February 29th , 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of domestic incidents and intentional injury during March 2020 when social distancing was in effect.
Methods:There were 12,638 patients who visited the Level 1 trauma center of Chungnam province with injuries from domestic incidents, familial discord, and intentional injury. The prevalence of injuries during March 2020 was compared with the average of the previous 5 years, and the average for every March between 2015 and 2019.
Results:The prevalence of domestic incidents in March 2020 was significantly higher than the 5-year average, and the average for every March from 2015 to 2019 (p < 0.001). Familial discord (p = 0.002) and intentional injury (p = 0.031) were more frequently observed in March 2020. Adolescents showed a markedly higher level of intentional injury in March 2020 than in both the 5-year average (p = 0.031), and average for every March over the previous 5 years (p = 0.037).
Conclusion:The prevalence of domestic incidents and intentional injury were significantly higher during the period of social distancing in Korea. There is a need for social consensus, better policies, and psychological support services, especially if faced with a second or third wave of coronavirus disease.
