Analysis of some factors and COVID-19 mortality in the population of 0 to 24 years in 29 countries: open schools could be a protection

Jesus D. C. Gil; Pedro M. Vargues-Aguiar

doi:10.54034/mic.e1480

Authors

Jesus D. C. Gil Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Lisboa, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0069-5362
Pedro M. Vargues-Aguiar Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54034/mic.e1480

Keywords:

COVID-19, mortality, school closure, associated factors, minors

Abstract

Background. It is limited literature on the possible factors related to mortality by COVID-19 in minors. Children and young people are generally considered vulnerable, especially in low-income countries, whereby consistent evidence must arise to protect them and avoid mortality. Methods. A multiple linear regression model was fit to evaluate the relationship between deaths per 100,000 inhabitants and pandemic containment policies, the duration of totally closed schools, and GDP in 29 countries under study. Results. Linear regression analysis shows that the association between deaths per 100k and the number of weeks of closed schools had a coef B=0.355, [CI 0.010; 0.699], and it is statistically significant (P-value =0.044). Similarly, the association between deaths per 100K and GDP was -0.001, [CI -0.003; 0.001], and is not statistically associated (P-value 0.633). Conclusions. This study suggests that open schools could be a protective space for COVID-19 mortality in the child and youth population and that each country should implement studies on the subject at the local level.

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