THE DEVELOPMENT OF COVID-19 EPIDEMIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AT THAI-LAOS BORDER: A CASE STUDY CHIANGKONG DISTRICT, CHIANGRAI PROVINCE

Abstract

Background: Chiang Khong is a small town in Chiangrai Province, Northern Thailand. Chiang Khong having territory adjacent to the Lao People's Democratic Republic with many entrances and exits. The movement of many populations from neighboring countries into both legal and illegal. People in the border area are at risk of disease and health hazards spreading along the border, especially the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop guidelines for prevention and control of emerging disease in the border areas to be effective.

OBJECTIVE: To study and to develop a system for surveillance, control, prevention of COVID-19 at Thai-Laos border, Chiang Kong district, Chiangrai province.

METHODS: This study was a research and development (R&D) method by contextual participatory design. The qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussion, and analyzed the qualitative data using content analysis and triangulation technique. Prepare drafts, reviews, amendments and summarize the development model. Quantitative data were collected using a  questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitude and covid-19 prevention behavior. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation.

ResultS: Based on the situation and the problems in the management of COVID-19 epidemic on Thai-Laos border, the development system was created with a pattern for the operation of the network sector in the area in the same way. It was a model of integration of one system, using one channel for communication, and creating public participation in disease surveillance in the community (one community). The assessment of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors related to COVID-19 showed that, the sample had the knowledge at a high level (mean score 10.25±1.06), the attitude at a good level (mean score 4.67±0.78) and the behavior at a good level (mean score 4.86±0.61).

Conclusion and RECOMMENDATION: From the results of the development of system for surveillance, control, prevention of COVID-19 The Thai-Laos border in Chiang Khong District, the relevant agencies should establish a framework for cooperation as a tool for disease surveillance. In local dimensions, there are both formal and informal working patterns in cooperation operations. Comprehensive and flexible border health policies should be implemented by giving freedom to set guidelines for work in the area can be self-administered. Including the creation of a coalition of partners, networks, agencies and organizations that support border health work. Integrated at the national level, at the level of ministry, department, province, district, sub-district until reaching a village or border community. Strengthening the capacity of communities to be able to manage transboundary health problems and promote guidelines for enhancing the potential of border communities to be border health community guard volunteers.