The COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America: introduction to the supplement

Abstract

After almost a year of the COVID-19 pandemic, Latin America is the most affected region in the world. Of the 69.5 million cases reported through December 4, 2020, 13.2 million were reported in Latin America, equivalent to 20 % worldwide. An examination of mortality caused by COVID-19, shows that 455 033 people have died in the region, corresponding to 30 % of the 1.52 million deaths worldwide. The disproportionate impact on Latin America is very evident given that the region represents 8 % of the world’s population.