Quarantine is a public health tool that physically separates and restricts the movement of people who may be contagious with an infectious disease. It differs from isolation, which is used for symptomatic individuals; to be effective, quarantine must begin prior to the onset of symptoms and last until it is deemed that an individual is no longer infectious. It is also different from contact surveillance, which monitors contacts for signs and symptoms of a disease.
Although quarantine has been employed for centuries, it has acquired a negative reputation due to its association with leprosy and other disease stigmas. In addition, the imposition of quarantine often requires the co-operation of those under its influence, which can be difficult for some. In the United States, quarantine is regulated under Title 42 U.S.C.
The purpose of this study was to examine the psychological impact of quarantine on adults, children and adolescents who experienced it. A systematic review of literature on this topic was conducted. 74 studies were included in the final analysis. These studies were categorized on the basis of their geographical location, study design/type and participants. Major findings and risk and protective factors identified by these studies were classified on the basis of the socio-ecological model.
It was found that quarantine has a significant psychological impact on the adolescent population and their families, especially children. This is mainly attributed to restrictions on their freedom of movement, use of monitors and limitations on their physical activity.
About the Author
