Occupational Exposure to COVID-19 among Healthcare Workers: Risk Patterns and Mental Health Implications

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) were among the most vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic due to direct exposure to infected patients and prolonged work in high-risk environments. In addition to infection risk, HCWs experienced considerable psychological stress. This study aimed to assess the occupational exposure patterns to COVID-19 among HCWs and evaluate the mental health implications and quality of life outcomes. Methodology: A mixed retrospective and prospective descriptive study was conducted from March 2020 to January 2022 at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Chandigarh. A total of 241 HCWs exposed to COVID-19 were included. Data on demographic characteristics, exposure type and frequency, PPE use, and mental health outcomes were collected. Depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, and quality of life were assessed using validated scales. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v26.0. Results: Of the 241 HCWs, 60.6% were female and 41.9% were aged 26–34 years. Most participants (87.6%) reported a single exposure. Common exposure settings included non-COVID wards (38.6%), emergency areas (25.9%), and operation theatres (14.1%). Only 39.3% of HCWs used full PPE during exposures. Mental health issues were significantly more prevalent in the high-risk group: PTSD (6.7%), depression (23.4%), anxiety (30%), and stress (33.3%) compared to the low-risk group. A statistically significant difference was observed in physical health-related quality of life between high- and low-risk HCWs (p = 0.014). Overall dissatisfaction with health was also higher in the high-risk group (10% vs. 2.2%). However, even low-risk workers reported psychological symptoms, indicating the widespread mental impact of the pandemic. Conclusion: The study highlights the dual burden of infection risk and psychological distress among HCWs. Inadequate PPE use and repeated exposures worsened mental health outcomes. Findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted occupational safety measures and mental health support systems for HCWs, especially during