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COVID-19: Pandemic in Ecuador: a health disparities perspective

Theofilos Toulkeridis1, Rachid Seqqat2, Marbel Torres A3

  • 1TT: Geología. M. Sc. Geología y Paleontología. Dr. Geología y Geoquímica de los Isótopos. Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE. Sangolquí, Ecuador. ttoulkeridis@espe.edu.ec.

Revista De Salud Publica (Bogota, Colombia)
|February 8, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Vulnerable areas in Ecuador, particularly those affected by volcanic ash, are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. These regions require targeted protection strategies during ongoing infection waves.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic began in Ecuador in February 2020, leading to over 40,000 cases and significant mortality.
  • A strict lockdown imposed in March 2020 caused a severe economic crisis.
  • Excess deaths during March-May 2020 indicate a substantial impact beyond reported COVID-19 cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between volcanic ash distribution and COVID-19 infection susceptibility and mortality in Ecuador.
  • To identify high-risk populations for potential secondary waves of infection.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive ecological study was conducted using national COVID-19 data from the Ministry of Public Health.
  • Volcanic ash fall data was analyzed geographically using satellite imagery over 21 years.
  • Mortality and attack rates were examined per canton.

Main Results:

  • Areas with high volcanic ash distribution showed higher COVID-19 mortality rates despite lower attack rates.
  • Specific cantons like Portovelo, Playas, and Santa Rosa reported the highest mortality per 100,000 people.
  • Volcanic material distribution is concentrated in the central to northern Highlands and Inter-Andean Valley.

Conclusions:

  • Geographical areas with pre-existing vulnerabilities, such as volcanic ash exposure, are more susceptible to severe COVID-19.
  • These vulnerable populations require specific protective measures, especially during subsequent infection waves.
Abstract

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