From Ebola to COVID-19: Psychosocial Challenges Faced by Australian-Based West African who Survived during the Ebola Epidemic (2014-2016)

Abstract

Background: This qualitative study reports on an array of phenomena which includes, past trauma, strongest memory of events, the influence of surviving the EVD epidemic, social supports during both disease outbreaks. It also covers coping strategies during the EVD epidemic and COVID-19 pandemic, psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic and life satisfaction. Aim: To determine the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on West Africans who survived the 2014-16 Ebola epidemic and are residing in Victoria -Australia. Methods: Participants were recruited through a non-randomised sampling method and qualitative data analysis followed the five stages qualitative data analysis. This includes initial deductive and inductive coding which enhances interactions with the data promotes understanding in the researcher. Th researcher’s observation of the sequence of the data which finally leads to the explanation of the findings was done. Participants were assigned codes in the place of their names and inclusion criteria were being 18 years and over, being in a 2014016 EVD affected country and resident in Victoria. Results: Thirty-six individuals took part in the survey and 9 responded to the interviews respectively. About 53% of the participants were women and majority were within age range 18-40 years. Findings included elevated levels of trauma, psychological distress, positive coping strategy and an array of support strategies. Conclusion: The study covered past trauma, social supports, influence of surviving the event, coping strategies, psychological distress and life satisfaction among participants. Symptoms of trauma, psychological distress were prevalent. Influence of EVD include fear related and health enhancing behaviors. Travel limitations, lockdowns, deaths and the consequent hardships that followed both disease outbreaks coupled with suboptimal supports in West Africa were recalled. The implication of this study shows the need for a robust mental health care for survivors. The finding is useful in supporting government initiatives in managing the psychosocial impacts of future disasters.