Epidemiologic character of COVID-19 in Kazakhstan: A preliminary report

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), named the etiological agent of Severe Acute Respiratory SyndromeCoronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has recently emerged in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019. Kazakhstan’sborder proximity to China has led to preventive measures in the country since January. This study aims to evaluate the epidemiologic characters of the first recorded cases in Kazakhstan.METHODS: Here, we reviewed the preparedness of the infection control and prevention procedures in Kazakhstan and evaluated the epidemiological characters of confirmed cases in Kazakhstan. The data for COVID-19 cases recorded from March 13to April 6, 2020, were obtained from the Sanitary Epidemiological Service. Age, gender and their living place were recorded.The severity of infection, geographical distribution, gender and age group of cases were analyzed.RESULTS: Four phases of preventive measures used in respiratory infections have been implemented in Kazakhstan sinceJanuary 6, 2020. The first case was recorded on March 13. During the period of March 13 and April 06, 629 cases withCOVID-19 were recorded in Kazakhstan. Of these, 45 patients recovered, six had resulted in death; 535 (85%) of caseswere mild and/or asymptomatic, 72 (11.5%) - moderate, 22 (3.5%) - severe. Of these, 7.5% of the cases were registeredas children and course was mild.CONCLUSION: The cases are increasing in Kazakhstan as seen in other countries. Currently, the strict implication of respiratory infection control measurement in public and health care services are still very important.