Exploration of the Epidemiological and Emotional Impact of Quarantine and Isolation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Starting in December 2019 in Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has crossed the borders forming a pandemic in 2020. The absence of pharmacological interventions has pushed governments to apply different sets of old, non-pharmacological interventions, which are, though temporary, helpful to prevent further pandemic propagation. In the context of COVID-19, research confirms that quarantine is useful, mainly if applied early and if combined with other public health measures. However, the efficacy of quarantine and isolation is limited in many ways, ranging from legal issues and suspension of economic activities to mental health considerations. This chapter is an exploration of (i) epidemiological impact of isolation and quarantine; (ii) emotional impact of isolation and quarantine; and (iii) the possible effect of culture on quarantine experience.