Investigaton of the Factors Related to the Prolongation of the Fifth Peak of Covid-19 in Kurdistan Province, Iran: A Qualitative Study

The fifth wave of Covid-19 occurred in Iran and lasted from the beginning of July to the end of August 2021. Unlike the previous waves, which lasted mainly 3-4 weeks, the fifth wave in the country, especially in Kurdistan province, was longer than 4 months. This study aimed to identify the causes of prolongation of the fifth covid-19 wave in Kurdistan Province.

In this qualitative study, the views of 52 medical professionals who were directly or indirectly involved in the surveillance and treatment of COVID-19 were obtained using semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was performed using the framework analysis method.

Low coverage rate of vaccination, false beliefs and lack of confidence in regard to the effectiveness of vaccines used, incomplete effects of the vaccines, vaccination during incubation period or illness, non-compliance with health protocols especially use of masks by vaccinated people, lack of correct and consistent use of standard masks, insufficient medical services and facilities, use of outpatient treatment approach and rapid discharge of the patients regardless of the disease transmission period, insufficient attention to the education of the patients and their families, weakness in contacts tracing of infected people, lack of seriousness in implementing government decisions, especially insufficient government support for vulnerable people and businesses, community exposure to a new strain of the virus (Delta strain), increased risk of transmission of the disease in the community due to cold weather in the province were the most important reasons for the prolongation of the fifth covid-19 peak in Kurdistan Province.

Based on the results, various factors such as vaccination, behavior of community members, government decisions, and response rate of health system were involved in the prolongation of the fifth corona wave in Kurdistan Province. It seems necessary to consider these factors in dealing with the next waves and peaks