Reduction of Severe Exacerbations of COPD during COVID-19 Pandemic in Portugal: A Protective Role of Face Masks?
Nuno Faria, Maria Inês Costa, Joana Gomes, Maria Sucena
Abstract
< 0.001) comparing with the same timeline of previous years. Results were consistent and statistically significant when comparing 2020 with each of previous years for every period of analysis. Our findings suggest a sustained decrease in the rate of sAECOPD during confinement and in the following months. The widespread use of face mask and social distancing during COVID-19 pandemic may play an important role in preventing the transmission of respiratory infections and consequently reducing sAECOPD.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineCOPDPandemicCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Emergency medicineRetrospective cohort studyFace masksTransmission (telecommunications)CohortPediatricsIntensive care medicineInternal medicineDiseaseInfectious disease (medical specialty)Electrical engineeringEngineeringCOVID-19 and healthcare impactsInfection Control and VentilationClimate Change and Health Impacts