Social Immunity Strategies Against COVID-19 with Buddhist Integration in the Mekong River Basin Border Area, Loei Province

Abstract

This research aims to: 1) Analyze the issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic; 2) Study the process of building social immunity against COVID-19 through a Buddhist integrative approach; and 3) Propose guidelines for building social immunity against COVID-19 through a Buddhist integrative approach. This is a qualitative research study. Key informants include 30 community leader representatives, volunteers, 10 public health representatives, and 30 public representatives. Research tools include in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, surveys, and participant observations. Data were analyzed using inductive reasoning and descriptive analysis.
The research findings are as follows:
1. The issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic revealed that the spread of the COVID-19 virus has led to a decline in tourism across all areas of Loei Province. The once-busy streets have become eerily quiet, with many homes and businesses along the walking streets closed, an unusual sight in such popular tourist destinations.
2. The process of building social immunity against COVID-19 through a Buddhist integrative approach emphasizes self-responsibility and social responsibility, avoiding negligence. Patients with severe symptoms typically experience dangerous pneumonia that can be fatal. The disease can spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. To prevent infection, one must begin by taking care of oneself and avoiding high-risk areas.
3. The guidelines for building social immunity against COVID-19 through a Buddhist integrative approach involve applying Buddhist principles to promote holistic well-being in four dimensions: physical, mental, social, and intellectual. Holistic health is achieved through mutual support and promoting well-being in all aspects body, mind, and society aligned with the Buddhist teachings of the Four Developments (Bhavana 4), which include physical, moral, mental, and intellectual training and development.