Comparative Global Epidemiological Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV Diseases Using Meta-MUMS Tool Through...

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The emergence of COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) in late 2019 presented a global health challenge, similar in nature to the earlier SARS-CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus) outbreak.
• Understanding the comparative epidemiological characteristics of these novel coronaviruses is crucial for public health response and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis comparing key epidemiological parameters of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV.
• Specifically, to compare incidence, mortality, and recovery rates between the two viral infections.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a publicly available dataset from Worldometer (as of April 5, 2020), confirmed by WHO reports.
• Employed a random-effects model for meta-analysis, including subgroup analysis and forest plots, to evaluate event rates and risk ratios.
• Analyzed data from 17 countries for COVID-19 (n=1,124,243) and 8 countries for SARS-CoV (n=8,346).

Main Results:

• The meta-analysis revealed a higher incidence rate for COVID-19 compared to SARS-CoV.
• Conversely, SARS-CoV exhibited higher mortality and recovery event rates than COVID-19.
• Subgroup analysis indicated that mortality and recovery rates were elevated in both SARS-CoV and COVID-19 relative to incidence and mortality rates, respectively.

Conclusions:

• The meta-analysis provides a statistical comparison of epidemiological data for COVID-19 and SARS-CoV outbreaks.
• Findings highlight distinct patterns in incidence, mortality, and recovery between the two coronaviruses.
• This comparative analysis offers valuable insights into the differing dynamics of these significant global health threats.