Experiences of social stigma among patients tested positive for COVID-19 and their family members: a qualitative study

Abstract Background Social stigma against persons infected with COVID-19 is not uncommon. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experience of social among positive patients and their family members. Method cross-sectional was conducted between April June 2020 in Malaysia. Patients who have recovered from for at least 1 month members were tested negative results, Malaysian aged 18–65 years old purposively sampled. Cold call method employed recruit while recruited by recommendations. Telephone interviews participants after obtaining verbal consent. Results A total 18 took part this study. Three themes emerged interviews: (Ι) stigmatization, (ΙΙ) perspective on disease disclosure, (ΙΙΙ) suggestion coping reducing stigma. The expressed experiences being isolated, labelled, blamed people surrounding them including health care providers, neighbours, staff service counters. Some respondents willingness share others emphasizing importance taking preventive measure order stop chain virus transmission some chose disclose medical history official purpose because fear lack understanding public. As suggested respondents, approaches addressing require involvement government, public, provider, religious leader. Conclusion Individuals families experienced Fear public key factors non-disclosure. as they perceived it increase awareness thereby Multifaceted multiple parties non-governmental organization well general recommended important measures address issues