Factors associated with COVID-19 deaths in Sierra Leone, March 2020 - March 2022

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global public health emergency that has claimed millions of lives. In Sierra Leone, limited information exists on the factors associated with COVID-19 deaths. Understanding these factors can help reduce the mortality burden of future public health emergencies. This study aimed to describe COVID-19 deaths and identify associated factors in Sierra Leone. Methods: We conducted an analytic cross-sectional study utilizing existing data to describe COVID-19 deaths among patients reported between March 31, 2020, to March 31, 2022. Data on demographic, clinical, and pre-existing medical conditions of COVID-19 was obtained from the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) using the electronic Case Based Disease Surveillance (eCBDS) platform. We performed an epidemiological analysis of deaths followed by multiple regression analysis to identify the associated risks. Results: We conducted an analytic cross-sectional study utilizing existing data to describe COVID-19 deaths among patients reported between March 31, 2020, to March 31, 2022. Data on demographic, clinical, and pre-existing medical conditions of COVID-19 was obtained from the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) using the electronic Case Based Disease Surveillance (eCBDS) platform. We performed an epidemiological analysis of deaths followed by multiple regression analysis to identify the associated risks. Conclusion: Pre-existing conditions and clinical severity increased the risk of COVID-19 deaths. COVID-19 death was associated with people aged 60 years or older. We recommended health authorities to prioritize the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions for COVID-19 preventive measures, including vaccination.