Variations in COVID-19 Indicators in the Pre and Post Carnival Period of 2021 in Palmas, Tocantins

Abstract

Since it was detected in December 2019, COVID-19 has spread across different continents, having been characterized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The situation in Palmas got worse due to the end of the year festivities. In this sense, this study aimed to compare hospital occupancy rates due to COVID-19 in the period before and after the 2021 carnival in Palmas, Tocantins. This is an observational study. Data were obtained from epidemiological bulletins published on the website Coronavirus Palmas. The values ​​of Incidence and Hospital Occupancy were extracted daily considering the 30 days before Carnival and the 30 days from the first day of Carnival. For the Hospital Occupancy indicator, there was a more significant increase in the maximum (62.9%) and median (57.1%) values, with a slight increase in the minimum value (17.2%). As shown, the state of Tocantins had a significant increase in deaths, a fact that reflected the situation in the country regarding the pandemic. In addition, these results demonstrate the importance of strengthening preventive measures. Finally, analytical studies are needed and with all aspects that can improve public policies to face pandemics.