Epidemiologic and Clinical Characteristics of Deaths from Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Daegu

Purpose: This study was conducted to analyze the epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of those who died from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) during the pandemic. Methods: The subjects of this study were 196 individuals who died from COVID-19 in Daegu area, reported from February 23, 2020 to December 31, 2020. Results: This study showed that underlying diseases and the period from symptom onset to confirmation are related. Additionally, gender and underlying diseases are related to the route of transmission. Furthermore, age and certain underlying diseases are related to specific treatments and the agreement of Do Not Resuscitate orders. Conclusion: Efforts to minimize COVID-19 mortality should include careful monitoring and timely, appropriate treatment from the early stages for confirmed cases exhibiting the epidemiologic and clinical characteristics identified in this study. Additionally, there should be institutional and political support to prepare for mass outbreaks of COVID-19, especially in long-term care facilities and other settings with weak infection control.