Epidemiology and Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Kerala, India, 2020–2021: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Kerala, a southern state in India, experienced a slightly different COVID-19 pandemic than the rest of India. Using data from daily COVID-19 bulletins and two other Kerala health information systems, this study reported on epidemiological characteristics and response measures of the COVID-19 pandemic between January 2020 and December 2021. After the first six months, Kerala experienced three distinct phases, with COVID-19 cases peaking in October 2020, May 2021, and August 2021. This contrasts with India, which experienced two main peaks in September 2020 and May 2021. The demographic profile of cases aligned with the national profile except for a slight increase of COVID-19 in persons aged ≥60 years. Monthly COVID-19 deaths increased dramatically from May 2021 onwards in line with case numbers but also reflecting changes in definitions of COVID-19 deaths. Case fatality for the two years was significantly higher in males than females, increased with increasing age groups, and varied between districts (p < 0.001). Trends in bed occupancy in field hospitals, hospitals for severe disease, intensive care units, and mechanical ventilation mirrored the different phases of the pandemic. The monitoring system in Kerala allowed certain aspects of the pandemic to be mapped, but it would benefit from further strengthening.