Environmental Factors Associated with Covid-19 Disease: A Systematic Literature Review

VIKAS BABU, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Suryakant Yadav, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Pravat Bhandari, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

The COVID-19 epidemic has had a devastating effect on human health, creating a huge public health concern. Numerous studies have been carried out to investigate the connection between environmental factors and COVID-19 transmission. This study examines worldwide data and existing studies from various locations to disentangle the relationship between the dynamics of COVID-19 transmission and environmental factors. For the purpose of determining the rationale, objectives, eligibility and selection criteria, search strategy, and study selection process of this systematic review, the methodology and inclusion criteria were predetermined and documented in a priori protocol. Elevated COVID-19 morbidity and death have been associated with air pollution. Virus viability and transmission rates found to be influenced by high temperature, air pollution, pm 2.5, wind speed, rainfall and humidity conditions. Urbanisation patterns also significantly influenced the spread of virus. The study suggests that environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and air pollution play a significant role in the spread and severity of COVID-19. However, the effects are complex and vary significantly across regions. The findings emphasise the necessity of utilising an interdisciplinary strategy that combines epidemiology and environmental science to improve response and readiness systems.

Keywords: Population, Shocks and Pandemics, Population, Environment, and Climate Change

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