How South African Families Protected Themselves during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a cluster of cases of ‘viral pneumonia’—‘Coronavirus Disease 2019’ (COVID-19)—in Wuhan City, the People’s Republic of China on 31 December 2019. To curb the spread of the virus, various containment measures were introduced. However, no study has explored how families protected themselves during the pandemic. Therefore, this study explored how families protected themselves during the COVID-19 pandemic using a qualitative exploratory design. Thirty-one adult participants, representing families in the Western Cape province of South Africa, were virtually interviewed. The sampling approach was both convenient and snowball. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The results show that families followed and adapted to the mainstream protection measures as implemented by the South African government but in addition believed that adherence to non-pharmaceutical interventions would protect them from contracting the virus. Therefore, the government and other stakeholders should support families in making it easier to protect themselves during the current and future pandemic(s).

Use of home remedies for the treatment and prevention of coronavirus disease: An integrative review

“…Reports from Asia and Africa revealed that certain products are used to prevent COVID‐19 infection. 17 , 32 , 45 Some preventative remedies include steam inhalation, drinking herbal juices, decoction (Kadha) and hot water; these are mainly used in Asian countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India. 24 , 29 , 45 Vitamin C and concoctions containing garlic, lemon and ginger, other native herbs and warm water are commonly used in Africa.…”

“…Such remedies include different spices, herbs and citrus fruits, garlic and warm water, ginger, honey, and lemon tea. 17 Lam et al 28 agrees that taking multivitamins, a supplementary diet containing high proteins, and using Chinese herbal medicine help boost the immune system. In India, natural spices such as Kadha and turmeric (known to have no side effects) have proven to boost immunity.…”

“…People believe that certain natural remedies help boost the immune system. Such remedies include different spices, herbs and citrus fruits, garlic and warm water, ginger, honey, and lemon tea 17 . Lam et al 28 agrees that taking multivitamins, a supplementary diet containing high proteins, and using Chinese herbal medicine help boost the immune system.…”

“…Natural compounds may provide alternative prophylaxis by boosting the immune response in the preexposure stage. 55 This review revealed that most people in Africa and Asia use products such as spices, herbs, citrus fruits, garlic, ginger honey, and lemon teas, as well as warm water 17 , 45 ; the results of which have proven effective. It is within this premise that the authors are of the view that home remedies can be used as a preventive measure.…”

“…Such simple measures include the use of tonics, herbs, and spices that are easily available at home. 17 : 10). COVID‐19 refers to a respiratory tract infection caused by the coronavirus, first discovered in China, in December 2019.…”