The Conundrum of Low COVID-19 Mortality Burden in sub-Saharan Africa: Myth or Reality?
Janica Adams, Mary J. MacKenzie, A. Kofi Amegah, Alex Ezeh, Muktar A Gadanya, Akinyinka Omigbodun, Ahmed M. Sarki, Paul Thistle, Abdhalah Ziraba, Saverio Stranges, Michael Silverman
Abstract
<h3>Key Messages</h3> Evidence suggests the demographic age structure of sub-Saharan Africa is the leading factor of the low morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 compared to other regions of the world. Widespread social mitigation strategies, such as lockdowns, have resulted in severe economic and societal consequences in terms of food security, adolescent pregnancy, gender-based violence, and disruptions in treating other diseases. It is imperative to weigh the risks and benefits of social mitigation strategies for future waves.
Topics & Concepts
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Development economics2019-20 coronavirus outbreakSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)MythologyPandemicEconomic growthPolitical scienceEnvironmental healthMedicineGeographyEconomicsHistoryVirologyPathologyDiseaseOutbreakInfectious disease (medical specialty)ClassicsGlobal Health Care IssuesGlobal Public Health Policies and EpidemiologyGlobal Maternal and Child Health