The Geography of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Namibia

Abstract

Spatial analysis of COVID-19 spread is an important tool for public health management, as a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform can support the entire process of infectious disease surveillance, preparedness and response. Consequently, this study applied regression analysis using r software and QGIS mapping to evaluate how COVID-19 infections are impacted by population dynamics, urbanisation, area temperature and tourism activities in Namibia. Study results revealed that, COVID-19 transmission is positively associated with urbanisation and negatively associated with temperature. Area population size is not associated with COVID-19 transmission. To reduce COVID-19 infections in Namibia, efforts need to be directed at minimising social and economic contact activities, particularly in urban areas. The Namibia society is also encouraged to adhere to the recommended COVID-19 public health measures such as social distancing of 1.5 meters apart and wearing of face masks in public spaces.