Differences in COVID-19 mortality between pandemic phases in a southern Italian region

ConclusionsOur results showed that mortality markedly decreased during the COVID-19 epidemic, and this could be likely related to an improved organisation and delivery of care, in addition to a better knowledge of disease treatment. Elderly patients were more likely to progress toward fatal outcome. The healthcare systems should pay special attention to them in order to effectively manage possible future pandemics.Key messagesThe COVID-19 mortality reduction highlights an improvement of health care; the elderly remains at major risk of death.Providing pandemic prevention and care models focused also on vulnerable groups is a major public health challenge.
Source: The European Journal of Public Health - Category: General Medicine Source Type: research