Assessing the Need for Continuity of Preventive Environmental Health Recommendations to Avoid Contamination With COVID-19: A Systematic Review Study

Abstract

The coronavirus may persist for an extended period, underscoring the importance of maintaining preventive environmental health recommendations and sustainable environmental health management to curb viral infections and prevent the resurgence of COVID-19. This systematic review of existing literature aimed to assess the role of environmental health in COVID-19 prevention. The systematic review involved searching scientific articles across databases including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as Environmental Health, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, Coronavirus, and Preventive. Articles were included based on their provision of full-text research focusing on the role of environmental health in COVID-19 prevention. Quality assessment and validation using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist were conducted independently by two authors. Ultimately, 20 articles comprising descriptive observational studies, systematic reviews, and analytical articles were selected from the total number of articles identified. Public participation in health protocols, environmental factors control, preventive recommendations, promotion of protective behaviors, immunization, and implementation of management measures emerged as critical strategies for effective risk communication and notification of preventive recommendations in addressing COVID-19. Fostering mutual understanding and sustaining public engagement are vital components in the ongoing battle against COVID-19. Given the significance of preventive measures and adherence to health protocols, ensuring the continuity of essential health services, implementing a combination of strategies to contain viral spread within society, and providing systematic information to stakeholders are underscored as crucial elements.