Results of the evolution of COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador: a comparison with South America

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this research was to demonstrate the evolution of the COVID-19 outbreak in Ecuador and South America during the first eight months after the start of the pandemic in the region. Methodology: In Ecuador, data from the Civil Registry, COVID-19 Ec and Ecuador were used in figures regarding the number of deaths, available beds, and infections of health personnel. The population data was obtained from the UN projection for the year 2020, and for the daily contagion reports, the source Our World in Data was used. The graphs were made in Google Drive spreadsheets. Results: The impact of the pandemic has affected the entire world, affecting South America with a high daily increase in cases even months after the first outbreak, in addition to the arrival of the second wave of contagion in Europe. The next few months are expected to lighten the panorama with the help of scientific advances in the development of the vaccine and a better understanding of the diagnosis, clinical manifestations and treatment of the disease. Conclusions: Ecuador was seriously affected with a significant increase in mortality rates and a lack of health resources. The comparison between the South American countries revealed that the highest spikes in contagion and mortality during the first wave occurred in July and August. It was recommended to continue complying with the rules of social distancing to prevent the appearance of a second wave during the beginning of 2021.