Civil Society Involvement in Managing the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study of a Large and Congested Urban Community in Bangkok, Thailand

• Main Authors: Suwatjana Noinam (Author), Noppawan Piaseu (Author), Tiraporn Junda (Author), Sukanya Tantiprasoplap (Author), Phachongchit Kraithaworn (Author), Suphanna Krongthaeo (Author), Jantra Keawpugdee (Author), Wanna Sanongdej (Author), Saowaros Kongcheep (Author), Wasana Srisuk (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Mary Ann Liebert, 2024-04-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted Thailand, including urban centers like Bangkok and surrounding areas, highlighting a critical need for effective management within densely populated communities to mitigate its effects. Methods: This qualitative study sought to explore community management strategies developed in Khlong Toei, a large, congested urban community in Bangkok, Thailand. Seven in-depth interviews (n=7), six focus groups (n=23), and two brainstorming sessions (n=12) were conducted for this study. Data were collected using Zoom, an online communication platform, and through on-site interviews between August 2021 and March 2022 in the congested urban community of Bangkok, Thailand. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: All informants (age range: 20?66 years, female respondents: 73.33%) were recruited by a community leader and the abbot of Saphan Temple, the community waiting area in Khlong Toei. The findings revealed two main themes: (1) Caring people, including two subthemes, and (2) Caring community, including two subthemes. Discussion: The study's findings provide guiding inputs for management of public fear to prevent emerging or re-emerging infectious pandemics within congested urban communities.

Item Description

10.1089/HEQ.2023.0215
2473-1242