Table 2 The main categories of explored challenges and Statements of the interviewees

Category 1

The limited evidence and scientific controversies

“Given that the virus is very new and there is no accurate experience or information about it, for

For example, in the case of reinfection, I don’t think it can be proven that whether it is reinfection or a recurrence of the disease.”

Category 2

Inadequate social prevention and social inequalities

“Some people have to work every day with low income. They can’t follow social distancing rules”.

Category 3

Burnout and sustained workload among healthcare workers

“In the early days, since the doctors themselves were not very familiar with the disease or there were no screening tests …, and it was the beginning of the work, the patients came to stay [at the hospital] for 3–4 days, and we used to do their treatment and care with ordinary clothes and a simple mask. In fact, we considered them as a regular patient. A few days later, we would find out that the case is infected with Coronavirus; that put a lot of pressure on us and increased stress. We were terrified of all patients, and we took care of each of them with horror.”

“I do not know if this is the second wave or not, but the number of patients has been sharply increased, and again, we are shocked.”

Category 4

Improper management of the resources and equipment

“I can say that for the first two weeks, the staff was in a lot of trouble. Gloves, masks, and alcohol were not there. These were not available in the market at all. “

“Different and sometimes contradicted protocols make hospital staff confused about how they can protect themselves.”

Category 5

Lack of updated and agreed guidelines for contact tracing and patient flow

“If someone suspected to have the disease, there is no trustable and available sources to help him or her. Even Health care workers are completely confused as to where to go and what should they do”

Category 6

Community mental health problems

“… everyone gets depressed. Social relationships are limited. People are afraid of one another. You feel like you are the center of infection. […] It’s psychologically problematic. For example, I have become very aggressive. I get angry very quickly and severely. I’m a little bored.”