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COVID-19

COVID-19 Pandemic Disrupts Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality Patterns in Nevada

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A new study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered mortality patterns for pneumonia and influenza (P&I) in Nevada, showcasing increased disparities across demographic and geographic groups. The research, conducted by the University of Nevada, analyzed excess P&I mortality in the state from January 2015 to December 2021, leveraging death certificate data and a Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial model to estimate expected mortality. The findings indicate a 3.95-fold increase in excess respiratory disease deaths, with COVID-19-associated deaths accounting for 75.3% of P&I deaths and 4,506 excess deaths.

Key Takeaways:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 3.95-fold increase in excess respiratory disease deaths in Nevada, with 6,234 excess deaths recorded during the study period.
  • COVID-19-associated deaths comprised 75.3% of P&I deaths and 4,506 excess deaths, with no significant excess in non-COVID-19 P&I deaths.
  • Disparities were most pronounced among males (4.33-fold, 333% increase), adults aged 25-64 (4.97-fold, 397%), and Hispanics (7.92-fold, 692%).
  • Frontier regions had the greatest mortality burden among regions, with a 3.98-fold increase in mortality (298%).
  • The study highlights the need for strengthened healthcare infrastructure, improved emergency response, and equitable preparedness policies.

Statistics:

  • 6,234 excess respiratory disease deaths were recorded in Nevada during the study period, a 3.95-fold increase above expected levels.
  • COVID-19-associated deaths comprised 75.3% of P&I deaths and 4,506 excess deaths (March 2020-December 2021).
  • Frontier regions recorded a 3.98-fold increase in mortality (298%).
  • 4,506 excess deaths were attributed to COVID-19, representing 75.3% of P&I deaths.
  • Adults aged 25-64 experienced a 4.97-fold increase in excess mortality (397%).

Sources:

  • Excess Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality In Nevada During the Covid-19 Pandemic (March 2020-december 2021): Implications for Disaster Preparedness. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 2025;126.
  • International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. Elsevier, Radarweg 29, 1043 Nx Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com; International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction - www.journals.elsevier.com/international-journal-of-disaster-risk-reduction/)

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