PERCEIVED HEALTH IMPACT OF LOCKDOWN IMPOSED DURING THE COVID19 PANDEMIC AMONG RESIDENTS OF JALINGO, TARABA STATE

Abstract

Complete or partial lockdown enforcement was set in the countries around the world; this hindered
the daily routines inflicting hardship on almost the whole of the world. This study aimed to assess
the perceived health impacts of the Covid-19 lockdown in Jalingo, Taraba State. A total of 399
questionnaires were distributed among participants within the study area. Findings revealed
significant gender differences in perceptions: 57% of males and 39% of females reported negative
impacts on accessing health services during lockdown. Similarly, 56% of males and 26% of
females expressed concerns about the lockdown's effects on family planning. The impact on daily
meal intake was noted by 56% of single individuals and 38% of married individuals. Moreover,
the study highlighted that 88% of respondents believed the inability to participate in religious
activities due to lockdown increased the likelihood of depression, while 96% felt similarly about
the inability to engage in business or job activities. Interestingly, 59% of males and 29% of females
supported lockdown as an effective measure against Covid-19 spread, reflecting gender
differences in opinion. The study recommends that governments provide adequate support and
palliative care, recognizing the economic and psychological stresses induced by lockdown
measures.