COVID-19 and Public Health in Algeria: The Mitigating Role of Physical Activity

Zouheyr Hadri; M'hamed Benada; Rachida Kirdi; Sofiane Boudalia; Hadil Subih; Badreddine Moussaoui

doi:10.54133/ajms.v10i2.2681

Authors

Zouheyr Hadri Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Relizane, Bourmadia BP 48000, Relizane, Algeria ; Laboratory of Environment, Natural Plant Substances and Food Technology, University of Relizane, Bourmadia BP 48000, Relizane, Algeria https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0594-576X
M'hamed Benada Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Relizane, Bourmadia BP 48000, Relizane, Algeria ; Laboratory of Environment, Natural Plant Substances and Food Technology, University of Relizane, Bourmadia BP 48000, Relizane, Algeria
Rachida Kirdi Laboratory of Biomaterials and Transport Phenomena LBMPT, University Yahia Fares, Urban pole, 26000 Medea, Algeria
Sofiane Boudalia Laboratory of Biology, Water and Environment, University of May 8, 1945 Guelma, P.O. Box 4010, Guelma 24000, Algeria; Department of Ecology and Environmental Engineering, University of May 8, 1945 Guelma, P.O. Box 4010, Guelma 24000, Algeria
Hadil Subih Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, PO Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
Badreddine Moussaoui Laboratory of Beneficial Microorganisms, Functional Food and Health (LMBAFS), Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, University of Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54133/ajms.v10i2.2681

Keywords:

COVID-19, Exercise, Physical activity, Public health

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness with global spread and significant health risks, particularly for individuals with comorbidities or weakened immunity. Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on appetite, olfactory and gustatory functions, associated diseases, and the role of physical activity in health maintenance. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective survey was conducted among 323 Algerian adults previously infected with COVID-19 (43.74±17.48 years; 175 females, 148 males). The questionnaire collected data on demographics, anthropometrics, COVID-19 symptoms, comorbidities, and physical activity levels. Results: Overweight and obesity were prevalent in 40.25% and 14.55% of participants, respectively, with significantly higher rates in those over 40 years (p=0.022). Sensory disturbances during infection were common: 84.21% experienced loss of smell, 75.54% loss of taste, and 37.46% appetite loss. A total of 21.98% reported COVID-19-related illnesses, primarily respiratory and cardiac complications. Notably, there was a strong inverse association between physical activity and disease occurrence (p<0.001; r=0.783), indicating that higher levels of physical activity are linked to a lower incidence of COVID-19-related illnesses. Conclusions: COVID-19 significantly affects sensory functions and contributes to comorbid conditions, especially among overweight and obese individuals. Regular physical activity appears to be a protective factor associated with reduced risk of COVID-19-related illness.

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