COVID-19 in Latin America: A Snapshot in Time and the Road Ahead

Since its initial detection in Brazil in February 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the associated COVID-19 pandemic have continued to devastate Latin America. Specific comorbidities, as well as sociodemographic and lifestyle factors that may be more prevalent in underserved areas, have been identified as risk factors for COVID-19 infection or associated adverse outcomes. Dynamics of infections and deaths in Latin America have varied by country and temporally, as has SARS-CoV-2 variant prevalence; however, more recently, the Delta and subsequent Omicron variants have become ubiquitous. Successful pandemic responses have involved robust infection mitigation measures, testing, and smart deployment of healthcare resourcing. While in some Latin American countries up to 90% of the population is fully vaccinated (i.e., 2 doses) against COVID-19, other countries have failed to reach the World Health Organization's 70% target. Continued focus on comprehensive surveillance, strategies to maximize vaccine availability and uptake, and mitigation of collateral damage on other aspects of public health and social services are critical for managing the COVID-19 pandemic. This review summarizes the COVID-19 experience in Latin America, including epidemiology and vaccination. Key learnings and future considerations for the ongoing pandemic response are also discussed.

Automated summary

Since February 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been devastating Latin America, with specific comorbidities and socio-demographic factors increasing the risk of infection and adverse outcomes. The spread of the virus and prevalence of variants have varied across countries, but the Delta and Omicron variants have become widespread. Successful pandemic responses have involved infection mitigation measures, testing, and vaccine deployment, but some countries have struggled to reach vaccination targets. Comprehensive surveillance, vaccine strategies, and mitigation of collateral damage are critical for managing the pandemic in Latin America.