Clinical Outcome Of Corona Virus Disease-19 Patients In An Infectious Disease Center, Olodo, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) is a severe respiratory infection caused by the newly emerged Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2).  Globally, mortality from this disease is high and infection sequelae can result in long-term illness.  COVID-19 is a new disease and the best way to manage patients remains uncertain, particularly in resource-limited settings. An evaluation of the clinical outcome of COVID-19 cases managed at the Infectious Disease Center (IDC), Olodo in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria over a period of eighteen weeks was carried out. This center (IDC), Olodo was designated by the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force to manage mild to severe cases of COVID-19 in Oyo state.

Materials and Methods: A treatment protocol designed by the Case Management Team of the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force was adopted. The protocol included classifying patients based on clinical signs and symptoms and qPCR Cycle Threshold (C_T) values, treating with a cocktail that included chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, zinc, vitamins C and D and or antibiotic(s) as indicated. Physiotherapy and nutritional support for these patients were also considered as priority. 

Results: During the period of study, 3,119 individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection in Oyo State received a positive result and 310 (9.9%) were admitted to the IDC, Olodo, Ibadan.  The average duration of admission was 10.22 ± 3.48 days, with 22(7.1%) patients requiring respiratory support by way of supplemental oxygen using re-breather bags and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)was used on one patient.  No mortality was recorded among the 310 patients managed according to the protocol at the IDC,Olodo, Ibadan during the study period. 

Conclusion: This clinical outcome suggests that the management protocol used in our center is effective and thus deserves evaluation for use in resource poor settings