Measures Adopted by Mauritius to Combat COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Governments are facing sequalae of the containment strategies adopted to curb the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. Mauritius, a Small Island Developing State was successful in containing the initial surge of COVID-19 cases in 2020 in a short span of time. This paper is a qualitative assessment to explore experience of the healthcare workers in combating COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured questions. The healthcare workers belonging to pre decided categories were invited for a face to face interview. A total of 19 samples were interviewed at various healthcare facilities at Mauritius till saturation was reached. Results: Themes that emerged during the analysis of the interviews were Capacity building, Intersectoral advocacy, Containment measures and Areas of concerns. The healthcare system responded with installation of Flu clinics and COVID-19 testing centres, formation of Rapid Response Team (RRT) for transport of positive patients to hospitals and contacts from their residence to quarantine facilities. Scarcity of public health specialists to lead activities at the grass root level was a challenge for the containment efforts. Adherence to IPC practices has to be improved among the staff working in the isolation wards. Conclusion: The containment measures adopted by Mauritius was proactive and well in time. Leadership provided at the grass root level with positive political and administrative commitment effected in large scale coordinated activities in the sectors of humanitarian, social, public health and medical response.