COVID-19 Morbidity and Mortality in Saudi Arabia: A Year-wise Geographic Analysis

Background During the three years of the COVID-19 epidemic, the disease spread to 205 locations across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative areas. There were serious repercussions of mortality and morbidity. However, since to the hard work of all the sectors and authorities involved, the pandemic was successfully managed.. Aims and Objectives This analytical investigation of COVID-19 aims to pinpoint the locations affected over three years. It also investigates the morbidity and mortality burden of the epidemic and identifies locations (governorates) and administrative areas for the volume and severity of COVID-19 cases, year-wise. Methods Daily reports of COVID-19 cases published by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health from March 15, 2020, to April 30, 2023, were analyzed in this research. Annual counts, estimates of crude infection rates, and case fatality rates with monthly averages were calculated for the entire country, its administrative areas, and 205 affected locations. Results Despite a progressive trend, the impact of the second and third waves of COVID-19 on morbidity and mortality varied across administrative areas, governorates, and locations. Both major administrative areas of Riyadh, Makkah,Madina, and the Eastern Region, as well as smaller ones, such as Al-Baha, Jazan and Aseer, faced serious repercussions of morbidity. Additionally, mortality was notable in the smaller administrative areas, namely, Al-Jouf, Hail, Jazan, Aseer, Northern Borders, and Al-Baha. Beyond, certain locations within these administrative areas outside populous cities and administrative headquarters emerged as COVID-19 hotspots, particularly in terms of mortality. Conclusion The COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality rates in Saudi Arabia exhibited a discernible pattern across the administrative areas, governorates, and locations, with numbers and infection rates fluctuating every month, showing both increases and decreases. Although mortality rates were higher in the first year, significant control measures were implemented that led to a reduction in this rate later. The fatality rate displayed notable variations across administrative areas. This analysis holds significance for the development of epidemic control systems, the implementation of resistance measures at the grassroots level, and the establishment of surveillance systems. Furthermore, it contributes to a clearer understanding of the situation that will facilitate international comparisons and the formation of collaborative networks.