Oxygen Inequity in the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Madeline Ross, Sarah K. Wendel
Abstract
<h3>Key Messages</h3> The longstanding inequity in access to supplemental medical oxygen therapy became particularly critical in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Supplemental medical oxygen is an important indicator of the success of the global pandemic response, given that it is the single most important medication for treating COVID-19. Improvements in medical oxygen supply must be prioritized to prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality. Expedited solutions must be balanced with locally led and context-specific sustainability planning that consider durable, meaningful change in oxygen sourcing and supply infrastructures.
Topics & Concepts
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)PandemicContext (archaeology)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Face masksSustainabilityBusinessMedicineVirologyGeographyEcologyArchaeologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)PathologyBiologyDiseaseOutbreakClimate Change and Health ImpactsRespiratory Support and MechanismsDisaster Response and Management